In a significant move to tackle the menace of vandalism, the Katsina State chapter of the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers, Employers of Nigeria, inaugurated a 200-member task force on Saturday.
The initiative aims to counteract criminals who pose as scrap dealers and commit vandalism, tainting the reputation of legitimate members. The association also introduced its newly elected state executive members during the event.
Speaking at the inauguration, the north regional president, Aminu Hassan-Soja, emphasized the critical role the task force would play in preserving the integrity of the scrap and waste dealers’ community in Katsina.
“There is no doubt that vandalism has become a serious threat to the nation, particularly here in Katsina, with fingers often pointing at our members,” Hassan-Soja said. “To prove that we are neither vandals, criminals, nor thieves, but rather legitimate businesspeople, we have established this task force,” he said.
According to him, the task force is a proactive measure to support government efforts in combating vandalism. He stressed further that the scrap and waste business contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economy, not only by reducing unemployment but also by maintaining the environment and supplying crucial raw materials.
“Our business revolves around buying and selling metals, which play an integral role in the economy. We supply raw materials to over 70 percent of Nigerian companies, including steel, plastic, and roofing sheet manufacturers, helping sustain the recycling industry”, he said.
Hassan-Soja pointed out that the absence of raw material supply from scrap dealers would impact the economy, as many industries would struggle to find the resources needed to produce finished goods.
