Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) has received a major boost in its efforts to enhance environmental cleanliness following the donation of a large quantity of protective kits by GZ Industries, a leading recycling company in Nigeria.
Receiving the items in Umuahia, the General Manager of ASEPA, Mazi Ogbonnia Okereke, commended GZ Industries for the kind gesture, describing it as a strong show of support for Governor Alex Otti’s vision to transform the lives and environment of Abia residents through impactful projects.
“This underscores the company’s belief in Governor Otti’s vision. The gesture marks the beginning of such collaborations where a private firm like GZ Industries, operating in Nigeria of its own volition, considers it necessary to support what we are doing. This forms part of their Extended Producer Responsibility and Corporate Social Responsibility,” Okereke said.
“GZ Industries voluntarily decided to assist ASEPA by kitting our workers properly. We encourage other corporate organizations to emulate this initiative and support the Abia State Government. The task of building a better society is not the responsibility of the government alone but of every citizen and stakeholder.”
He added: “What they have done may not seem huge when compared to their profits, but the fact that they did it at all deserves commendation. They pay their taxes and now they’ve gone further with this gesture. We assure them the items will be put to good use.”
Earlier, the company’s Human Resource Manager, Mr. Chukwuma Ndigwe, said the donation aligns with GZ Industries’ policy of adding value to its host communities.
He disclosed that the company is currently constructing a 3.7-kilometre concrete road worth N9 billion in Umuochchi community, where its plant is located.
“It’s very important to us as a company that when we identify a need, we find a way to address it. One of our managers, while visiting Aba, noticed workers cleaning the city without reflective gear, and that was what prompted us to step in. We’ve been doing similar things in the western part of the country and plan to continue.”
Ndigwe said GZ Industries decided to support ASEPA in recognition of the innovations the agency has introduced in waste management.
“What we’re seeing in Abia today reminds us of places like Rwanda, where cleanliness is so entrenched that if food falls on the ground, one can confidently pick it up and eat. That’s why we’re proud to partner with ASEPA, and we hope this is just the beginning of more collaborations,” he said.
He expressed confidence that ASEPA would sustain its efforts: “We’ve seen cases where government agencies receive vehicles or support, and within months, those assets are run down. But with ASEPA, we believe in their capacity to sustain this good work.”
Also speaking, Chairman of the House Committee on Environment in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke, appreciated the company for its support.
He said the donation aligns with the objectives of House Bill 31 — a proposed law to establish the Abia State Polluter Pays and Extended Producer Responsibility framework for managing non-biodegradable packaging materials.
“What you’ve done today is in line with the spirit of this bill. Unfortunately, some producers, like those in the pure water sector, have focused only on parts of the bill. But this legislation is aimed at creating synergy between the state and industries for sustainable waste management.
“I’m glad GZ Industries is already implementing this vision. We’ll send a copy of the bill to you for your input. Our goal isn’t to suffocate small businesses but to craft a law that protects our environment through mutual cooperation,” he stated.
Deputy General Manager of ASEPA, Ohafia Zone, Mr. Peter Ekekwe, said GZ Industries’ support is a motivation for ASEPA to do even more.
“It’s uplifting when a third party recognizes your efforts and says, ‘You’re doing well, and I want to help.’ What you’re telling us is to expect more—and we’re inspired to deliver even better.”
