The Ondo State Government has reiterated its commitment to the welfare of street sanitation workers and assured consistent and prompt payment of their wages.
Chairman of the Ondo State Waste Management Authority (ODSWMA), Mrs. Yinka Alabi, gave this assurance while reacting to public discussions surrounding the welfare of sweepers in Akure.
Mrs. Alabi said the sweepers remain a critical part of the state’s environmental health system and commended them for their dedication to maintaining cleanliness across major roads and highways in the capital.
“They have been diligent, they have been working, and we appreciate them,” she said. “Mr Governor loves them, and he has been demonstrating that consistently.”
She stressed that the Aiyedatiwa administration places high priority on the welfare of all sanitation workers and has ensured that payments are made as and when due.
She confirmed that sweepers have already started receiving their latest payment alerts.
“Our workers have been receiving their alerts since Wednesday, and we will continue to ensure they get their payments promptly,” Alabi stated.
Mrs. Alabi highlighted improvements in environmental cleanliness in Akure, noting that the State’s enforcement and public enlightenment campaigns have compelled residents to adhere more strictly to proper waste disposal practices.
“There is a visible departure from indiscriminate dumping on medians and roadsides. Through enforcement and orientation, people are getting used to the right way of disposing their waste,” she said.
“We have tried offenders in environmental courts, and the fines have served as deterrents.”
As the festive season approaches, she said the agency has put mechanisms in place to manage the expected surge in waste generation.
“We are encouraging residents to containerize their waste. We have also made subsidized trash bags available and will deploy trucks to strategic locations to ensure waste is disposed properly,” she said.
Mrs. Alabi again appreciated the sweepers for their dedication and urged them to continue their work with pride.
“We value our sweepers and will continue to work to ensure they get the best support. Things will keep getting better,” she assured.
