By Asuquo Edem
The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has resolved to partner with the private sector to establish recycling plants across the state as part of efforts to address environmental challenges, create jobs, and boost economic growth.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion titled “Waste to Wealth: Need to Partner with the Private Sector to Establish a Recycling Plant in the State,” sponsored by the Member representing Essien Udim State Constituency, Prince Ukpong Akpabio II, KSJI.
Presenting the motion, Prince Akpabio expressed concern over the rising volume of commercial and domestic waste generated daily in the state, noting that much of it is disposed of in landfills or ends up blocking drainage systems, thereby increasing the risk of flooding and public health hazards.
He noted that recycling offers significant environmental advantages over landfills, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, soil and water contamination, and the release of toxic substances into nearby communities.
The lawmaker further emphasized the economic value of recycling, pointing out that Nigeria’s recycling industry is estimated to be worth over $2 billion, yet Akwa Ibom continues to lose potential revenue as recyclable waste is transported to other states for processing.
Prince Akpabio linked the proposal to Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, particularly the Economic Consolidation and Expansion Blueprint, which promotes public-private partnerships in recycling as a tool for economic development, job creation, and environmental sustainability.
Contributing to the debate, Hon. Udobia Friday Udo, representing Ibeno/Esit Eket State Constituency, said the establishment of recycling plants would enhance public safety, conserve energy, and create employment opportunities, especially for fresh graduates.
He added that collaboration with private investors would yield environmental benefits while stimulating economic growth within the state.
Also speaking, Hon. Itorobong Etim, Member representing Uruan State Constituency, said while waste generation is inevitable, converting waste to wealth is the modern approach to waste management.
She stressed the need for proper waste separation to facilitate recycling and noted that electricity could be generated from waste, a development that would increase revenue generation for the state if effectively implemented.
On his part, Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey, representing Okobo State Constituency, said the proposed recycling plants would promote a cleaner environment, improve air quality, and enhance public health outcomes for residents of Akwa Ibom State.
Following deliberations, the House resolved to call on the State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency, to partner with the private sector in establishing recycling plants across the state, while mandating the House Committee on Environment to provide oversight on the matter.
The Speaker, Elder Udeme Otong, who presided over plenary, after due deliberation on the motion, called on the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Nsikakabasi Orok, to communicate the resolutions to the Executive Government for implementation.
Meanwhile the House has adjourned to reconvene on January 27, 2026.
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