Anambra govt bans roadside mechanic workshops

The Anambra Government says it will soon begin enforcing the ban on open mechanic workshops, particularly in major cities, as part of efforts to improve environmental sustainability and promote orderly urban development.

The Commissioner for Environment, Dr Clem Aguiyi, said this while speaking with journalists in Awka on Friday to commemorate World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5 across the globe.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the 2026 World Environment Day, themed “Climate Action,” aims to raise awareness and encourage actions that support environmental protection and sustainable development worldwide.

Aguiyi said the planned enforcement aligned with the state government’s vision of transforming Anambra into an African-Dubai-Taiwan Silicon Valley through improved environmental standards, urban planning, and sustainable economic development initiatives.

According to him, the government remains committed to eliminating activities that degrade the environment, threaten public health, and undermine efforts aimed at achieving the state’s long-term developmental objectives.

“We are set to begin the enforcement of the ban on open mechanical workshops, especially in our major cities, to create a cleaner, more organised and environmentally friendly state.

“The policy aligns with the vision of the Gov. Chukwuma Soludo administration to transform Anambra into an African-Dubai-Taiwan Silicon Valley.

“We cannot achieve that vision if environmental abuses are allowed to persist,” he said.

The commissioner urged operators of mechanic workshops in urban areas to fence their premises adequately and comply with environmental regulations to avoid sanctions when enforcement began statewide.

“I advise owners of mechanic workshops to properly fence their premises and put their operations in order because the government will not relent in ensuring that Anambra is not defaced,” he said.

Aguiyi also announced that the ministry would begin marking buildings and structures erected on waterways and flood channels across the state for demolition beginning from next week.

“Such structures obstruct the free flow of water, contribute to flooding and pose serious environmental and safety risks to residents,” he said.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the environment, preventing flooding, enforcing environmental laws, and ensuring sustainable development across communities and urban centres throughout the state.
NAN