The residents of Kwara State have been urged to prioritise environmental cleanliness and personal safety as the festive season approaches. This call aims to ensure that communities across the state celebrate Christmas and the end-of-year holidays in a clean, safe, and healthy environment.

Speaking in his office today, the General Manager of the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA), Hon. Jide Aina, emphasised that the festive period serves as a reminder of the values of tidiness, orderliness, and responsibility. He noted that celebrations become more meaningful when the environment is clean and free of practices that endanger public health and safety.

Hon. Aina explained that Christmas and end-of-the-year festivities present an important opportunity for households, markets, worship centres, and business areas to recommit to proper waste disposal, regular sanitation, and adherence to environmental protection guidelines. He added that KWEPA will intensify its monitoring and enforcement efforts throughout the period to ensure full compliance.

The General Manager also used the occasion to caution parents and guardians to strictly warn their children and wards against the use of explosive bangers and fireworks. According to him, these devices not only constitute noise pollution but also induce unnecessary panic, frighten vulnerable residents, and pose serious safety risks to the general public.

Hon. Aina appealed for the co-operation of all residents, assuring them that KWEPA remains committed to maintaining a clean, peaceful, and environmentally friendly Kwara State. He further called on community leaders, youth groups, and religious bodies to support ongoing efforts to promote hygiene, safety awareness, and responsible celebration throughout the festive season.