The Cross River State Commissioner for Environment, Moses Osogi, has described the sanitary condition of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) as deeply troubling and unacceptable.
Osogi gave this assessment on Saturday, following an environmental sanitation exercise during which he inspected the university and other areas in Calabar.
He expressed concern over the poor hygiene observed within the university premises, particularly in the students’ living quarters, which he said were in a deplorable state.
While commending residents of Calabar for their high level of compliance during the monthly sanitation exercise, Osogi pointed out that UNICAL was lagging behind in maintaining proper environmental standards.
He assured that the state government would step in to support the institution in improving students’ living conditions.
“Despite last month’s break due to the JAMB exams, I’m encouraged by the public’s strong participation in this month’s sanitation. However, the situation at UNICAL is concerning,” he said.
Addressing the waste management issues in the state, Osogi appreciated the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its Waste Intervention Initiative, which included the donation of waste bins to the ministry.
He called on residents in need of disposal units to apply, as the bins are intended for public benefit.
The commissioner also ordered the strict enforcement of sanitation laws against defaulters to maintain a cleaner environment.