Lokoja, Kogi State – Kogi State has been ranked as the third dirtiest state in Nigeria, according to recent data from the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) and Clean-Up Nigeria. This ranking highlights significant challenges in waste management and environmental sanitation across the state, contributing to widespread pollution and health risks for residents.
Below are the rankings for the dirtiest and cleanest states in Nigeria:
Top 10 Dirtiest States in Nigeria (2024):
- Abia – Struggles with severe waste management issues, particularly in Aba city.
- Lagos – Despite being Nigeria’s commercial hub, it suffers from poor waste disposal in many areas.
- Kogi – Inadequate sanitation measures and negligence contribute to widespread pollution.
- Anambra – Streets, especially in Onitsha, are littered with refuse due to ineffective waste management.
- Kano – Business areas and parks are often filthy, posing health risks to residents.
- Osun – Lack of compliance with waste control measures keeps the state dirty and polluted.
- Nasarawa – Proximity to Abuja has not translated to better waste management practices.
- Zamfara – Security and literacy issues overshadow efforts toward environmental cleanliness.
- Yobe – Insecurity and insufficient attention to cleanliness exacerbate garbage problems.
- Ogun – Urban areas are improving, but rural regions still struggle with waste disposal.
Top 8 Cleanest States in Nigeria (2024):
- Akwa Ibom – Consistent awareness campaigns and investment in sanitation facilities keep the state clean.
- Ebonyi – Modern waste facilities and proper disposal methods make Ebonyi one of the cleanest states.
- Cross River – Emphasis on creating a healthy environment and promoting tree planting helps maintain cleanliness.
- Enugu – Regular sanitary programs and provision of modern waste infrastructures ensure a tidy environment.
- Delta – Effective sanitation projects and regulations contribute to Delta’s cleanliness.
- Edo – Engages in cleanliness campaigns and educational initiatives to promote environmental hygiene.
- Plateau – Initiatives to maintain its natural beauty and combat waste problems keep the state clean.
- Abuja (FCT) – As the nation’s capital, Abuja consistently maintains high standards of sanitation and cleanliness.
Kogi State’s ranking as the third dirtiest in the country serves as a call to action for both the government and citizens to prioritize cleanliness and implement sustainable waste management solutions to reverse this troubling trend.