Omiete Blessing
The Olympus Marino Deck of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Pyrates Confraternity, at the weekend, embarked on environment sensitisation and cleanup exercise for its host community in Port Harcourt.
The President of the branch of the group, Nnamdi Ilochi, explained that the programme is in commemoration of World Cleanup Day, which is marked annually on September 20th.
The humanitarian group visited residents of its host community in Ada-George axis of Port Harcourt, sensitising them on the needs for clean environment, noting that it will tackle the challenges of the flood they experience in the area, especially during rainy season.
Ilochi disclosed that the exercise is in partnership with local residents of the area, volunteers and the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWANA).
Speaking with journalists during the exercise, Ilochi stated “Today, we mark a significant milestone in our collective effort to create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for the Okilton community.
“The event was a clear demonstration of the power of collaboration and community spirit. Volunteers were mobilised into teams to clear littered streets, unclog drainage systems, and properly dispose of waste, addressing one of the most pressing issues in our locality.
“Additionally, our interactive ‘Dunk-the-Waste-in-the-Bin’ game added a fun and educational element, promoting awareness on proper waste disposal and sustainability practices among participants. I was especially thrilled to see the enthusiasm with which our community engaged in these activities, and the sense of pride in keeping our environment clean”.
According to Ilochi, the group always strives to set the pace through people-centered activities, stressing that “This event aligns with our core belief that meaningful, long-lasting change can only come when we lead by example and bring people along on the journey. The success of today’s cleanup is a testament to that philosophy”.
He however, thanked the RIWAMA for their technical support, which according to him was vital in making the initiative a reality.
“Their partnership underscores the importance of working together with key stakeholders to address the waste management challenges that affect us all. To the residents and volunteers who gave their time and effort, I offer my deepest appreciation. You are the true champions of this effort, and your contributions will resonate long after today’s event”.
He noted that “The event is more than just a cleanup, it is a call to action. World Clean Up Day reminds us that environmental stewardship is a responsibility we all share”.
Ilochi urged member of the Okilton community to continue embracing sustainable practices, ensuring that streets, homes, and surroundings remain clean and safe for generations to come.
He added “Let today serve as a reminder that with unity and purpose, we can achieve remarkable things. Together, we have taken an important step toward safeguarding the environment, and I am confident that this momentum will carry us forward into future initiatives”.
Some of the volunteers and residents of the area, applauded the move by the group, saying they have revived the consciousness of cleanup environment in their lives. They also assured that the exercise will buy end soonest, agreeing to fight against flood incidence through a clean environment.
Friday Henshaw, a volunteer in the exercise said: “I appreciate what we are seeing today. This is what we have been expecting, to see that our environment is clean and tidy, it will stop flood incidence and blockage of the drainages. I prefer it holds monthly the way it used to be”.
