By Kennedy Aniedozie
The Anambra State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Clem Aguiyi, has directed all abattoirs operating across the state to strictly comply with the environmental laws and regulations guiding their operations.
Dr. Aguiyi gave the directive while speaking with journalists in his office in Awka, stressing that the move is part of the Solution Government’s commitment to building a livable, healthy and environmentally sustainable Anambra State.
According to the Commissioner, Governor Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s declaration of a state of emergency on the environment calls for proactive measures, continuous sensitisation and effective enforcement to ensure that residents take responsibility for keeping their surroundings clean and healthy.
Dr. Aguiyi expressed concern over some environmental nuisances observed in certain abattoirs across the state, warning operators to ensure that their facilities meet the required hygiene and environmental standards.
He listed some of the requirements to include the provision of adequate pipe-borne water, designated and hygienic areas for slaughtering animals, functional drainage systems, proper disposal of animal carcasses and other waste, as well as clean toilet facilities for workers and customers.
The Commissioner also directed abattoir operators to carry out regular fumigation and maintain proper sanitation within their facilities. He stressed that animal carcasses and other forms of waste must not be left to litter the environment.
Dr. Aguiyi maintained that the government would combine sensitisation with enforcement to achieve full compliance, noting that the approach is part of the ongoing efforts to eliminate environmental nuisances and protect public health across the state.
He therefore called on all abattoir operators to cooperate with the Ministry of Environment and ensure full compliance with the environmental standards and regulations of Anambra State.
The Commissioner emphasised that maintaining clean and hygienic abattoirs is not only a government responsibility but a collective duty that requires the cooperation of operators and residents alike.
