By Aderogba George
Dr Patrick Ezie, a House of Representatives aspirant for AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency on the African Democratic Congress platform, has pledged to convert waste into wealth in the FCT if elected in 2027.
Ezie told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja that his plan included establishing recycling systems to boost environmental sustainability and create employment opportunities for youths across the nation’s capital.
He said he would establish recycling plants in Bwari and AMAC Area Councils to engage “Babanbollers” and “Mai Shara,” popularly known as scavengers, integrating them into a formal waste management system.
According to him, waste currently dumped in rivers and drainage systems would be collected and processed, helping to clean the environment and ensure free flow of water across affected communities.
“The scavengers will be integrated into the system, provided with uniforms, and tasked with transporting waste to recycling plants, where they will be gainfully employed and paid salaries,” he said.
Ezie explained that engaging scavengers productively would also help reduce insecurity, as many resort to risky activities due to poverty and lack of structured employment opportunities in the city.
He added that recyclable materials such as plastic bottles would be converted into useful products, including bags and slippers, while organic waste would be processed into manure for farmers.
He said the initiative would protect the environment while creating jobs, noting that employing thousands of workers in recycling plants would significantly reduce unemployment in the Federal Capital Territory.
Ezie also promised inclusive leadership, stating that he would hold regular town hall meetings with constituents to promote accountability, gather feedback, and ensure policies reflected the people’s needs and priorities.
“I will engage directly with the people to understand their challenges. Even where I have solutions, I will ensure they align with the expectations and realities of the communities,” he said.
Addressing insecurity, Ezie described it as a major concern in the FCT and pledged to work with security agencies to strengthen protection across communities, especially in vulnerable boundary areas.
“I will collaborate with the police, DSS, and the army, and support the deployment of vigilantes where necessary to ensure the safety of our people,” he added.
Ezie further promised to attract industries to the FCT, including power generation projects, noting that reliable electricity supply is key to driving industrial growth and economic development.
He also highlighted opportunities in electric vehicle assembly, stating that rising fuel costs made alternative energy solutions increasingly important for easing transportation challenges and reducing expenses for residents.
Ezie assured that his administration would prioritise youth training, women’s empowerment, and social welfare, emphasising that no woman should lack access to emergency support under his leadership.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)