By Binta Shama Abuja
Th e Federal Ministry of Science and Technology has fl agged off the National Waste -to -Wealth programme through use of appropriate technologies. Th e Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, who did the fl ag-off in Markurdi, the Benue state capital, said the conversion of waste to wealth was an innovative means of generating jobs. Speaking on the choice of Benue state for the launch of the programme, the minister said the state is reputed for its arable land and yielding food crops and fruit trees. “Benue State is endowed
with rich natural and agricultural resources and diverse cultural heritage, which makes it a prime location for the establishment of waste management pilot plant model that will serve as an example to other states within the zone. “It is imperative that the waste- to- wealth management sector be rehabilitated and equipped with technology driven concepts and techniques that are environmentally safe to help explore and extract the opportunities hidden within waste,” he said. Further, he said the pilot plant when installed will enable people generally to convert the huge waste to valuable economic goods and services.
“It will also help stimulate national consciousness to the power of science and technology as an important instrument for national rebirth, sustainable development and enduring prosperity.” In the opening remarks, the Ministry of Science and Technology Permanent Secretary, Belema Wakama, said the programme is aimed at achieving fruitful national integration waste management system in the country.
“Th e Waste – to – Wealth programme initiated by the ministry is targeted at achieving a sustainable endto-end solution for national integrated waste management system in the country, using appropriate technologies through a well-coordinated national plan, orientation and strategy.” Belema added that the establishment of the pilot plant model in the state will lead to realization of the objectives of economic stimulation programme in terms of employment generation, improve lives and breed cleaner environment.” Also speaking, the host Governor, Dr Samuel Ortom, pledged his administrations’ full support for the Waste – to – Wealth initiative embarked by the federal government adding that his administration will oblige the ministry whatever would be needed to the scheme a success. “Th e state has earmarked a dumpsite of about four hectares of land for the pilot project, with the hope that when the project commences fully the quantum waste that litters around major towns in the state will be completely eradicated. “Th e waste at the dumpsite when evacuated and fed into the machines will be converted to valuable materials marketed to create wealth
