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FINIMA COMMUNITY HOLDS SUCCESSFUL ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION EXERCISE: A SHOW OF UNITY AND CLEANLINESS

By Omie D. Brown, P.R.O, Environmental Committee | For & on behalf of the FYC Director of Environment

Edited by Engr. Tamunofiniarisa Brown

FINIMA, BONNY ISLAND — Saturday, May 31, 2025.

In a compelling demonstration of civic responsibility and environmental consciousness, the people of Finima Community came out in full force today to participate in the monthly environmental sanitation exercise. The exercise, held on the final Saturday of May, saw an overwhelming turnout from residents, who enthusiastically cleaned their homes, streets, gutters, and public spaces with remarkable energy and discipline.

The event, spearheaded by the Finima Youth Congress (FYC) Environmental Committee, was not just another routine cleanup; it became a symbol of community unity, environmental awareness, and leadership engagement. From the early hours of the morning, young and old residents alike could be seen actively sweeping, clearing weeds, disposing of refuse, and ensuring that every corner of the community reflected cleanliness and order.

Speaking after the exercise, the FYC Executive Chairman, Comrade Darlington Tobin, and the Director of Environment, Comrade Opara Henry Brown, jointly expressed their deep appreciation to the residents of Finima for the high level of participation. “Today’s turnout is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. Cleanliness is not just a task—it is a culture, a lifestyle. And Finima is clearly setting the pace in Bonny LGA,” said the Director.

Royal Involvement: The Amadabo Leads by Example

The significance of today’s sanitation exercise was further elevated by the presence and active involvement of the Amadabo of Finima, Aseme Alabo Engr. (Dr.) Dagogo Lambert Brown. FNSE, FAIPA, who not only endorsed the exercise but also joined the Environmental Committee and community members in patrolling the various areas of Finima to monitor compliance and offer words of encouragement.

The Amadabo’s presence served as a major source of inspiration to many residents, especially the younger generation. Known for his dedication to community development and cultural preservation, Amadabo’s involvement underscored the importance of leadership by example. As he moved through the streets, the Amadabo engaged with residents, inspected sanitation efforts, and applauded those who showed exceptional commitment to maintaining a clean environment.

Community members expressed delight at the royal presence, noting that it brought a renewed sense of purpose and pride to the exercise. “When we see our traditional ruler walking with us and ensuring we clean up our surroundings, it tells us that everyone has a stake in the health and beauty of Finima,” said one resident.

Local Government Support: Sole Administrator’s Visit Marks a Historic First

In a rare and commendable gesture of solidarity, the Sole Administrator of Bonny Local Government Area, Sir Kingsley Banigo, also paid a supervisory visit to Finima Community during the sanitation exercise. Accompanied by members of his administrative entourage, the Sole Administrator was received with traditional honour and hospitality.

Welcomed by the Amadabo and the FYC executives, Sir Banigo was given a tour of the community, during which he observed firsthand the community’s coordinated cleanup activities. The Sole Administrator was visibly impressed with the level of organisation, the enthusiasm of the people, and the cleanliness achieved during the exercise.

Speaking during the visit, Sir Banigo expressed his satisfaction with the efforts of the Finima people. “This is what grassroots governance should look like. When the people take ownership of their environment, they contribute immensely to public health and safety. I commend the FYC, the traditional institution, and the residents for this exceptional exercise. I will take this back as a model for other communities,” he stated.

During the tour, the Sole Administrator was also taken to the Finima Cemetery, a historically significant but presently overgrown part of the community. Moved by what he saw, Sir Banigo promised to support the Finima community in a special cleanup project within the cemetery, including the felling of dangerous and obstructive trees. This commitment was met with applause and appreciation from both residents and the FYC leadership.

A Community on a Mission: Sustainability at the Core

The Finima Youth Congress has consistently demonstrated its resolve to lead a grassroots environmental renaissance in the region. Through its Environmental Committee, the FYC has championed monthly sanitation exercises, waste management campaigns, and advocacy for responsible community behaviour.

Today’s success was a culmination of weeks of mobilisation, community sensitisation, and strategic planning. Flyers were distributed, town criers engaged, and local influencers leveraged to spread the message of the May sanitation day. These efforts paid off as virtually every household participated—either by cleaning their premises or joining group efforts in communal areas.

According to the committee’s coordinators, the next phase will include targeted awareness programmes on recycling, proper waste disposal methods, and the launch of a “Green Finima” project aimed at planting trees and flowers to beautify the community.

“We’re not just cleaning for today.” “We are setting the tone for a sustainable, environmentally conscious Finima. Our children deserve a clean, green, and healthy environment, and we’re committed to delivering that.”

Looking Ahead: A Model for the Region

The joint efforts of traditional leadership, local government, youth, and ordinary citizens today present a powerful narrative: when stakeholders work together, community transformation becomes not only possible but inevitable.

The FYC has made a clarion call to other communities within the Bonny LGA and beyond to emulate Finima’s example. “We are open to sharing our strategies, our challenges, and our solutions with other youth groups and environmental bodies. This is not a competition—it’s a collective responsibility,” said the Executive Chairman.

Meanwhile, residents expressed hope that the promises made by the Sole Administrator—especially regarding the Finima Cemetery—would be promptly fulfilled. “His visit today was reassuring, but what we need now is action. If he delivers on his promise, it will further boost community trust in the local government,” said Mrs Ibim Hart, a local women leader.

Conclusion: A Clean Finima Is a Proud Finima

In wrapping up the day’s event, the FYC Director of Environment expressed heartfelt gratitude to every resident who participated and urged continued commitment in subsequent months. He noted that the success recorded today should serve as a foundation for more ambitious environmental projects, including waste recycling, drainage desilting, and public space greening.

As the sun set on a refreshed and reinvigorated Finima, one thing was clear—this community is not waiting for change; it is creating it, one cleanup at a time.

This report was edited by Engr. Tamunofiniarisa Brown.

For questions or further enquiries, please contact the Environmental Committee P.R.O.

Finima Community Takes a Stand Against Plastic Pollution: PREZICON Ltd and FYC Environmental Committee Lead World Environment Day Campaign

By Omie D. Brown, P.R.O, FYC Environmental Committee

Finima, Bonny Island, Rivers State — In a powerful show of environmental consciousness and community engagement, PREZICON Limited, in partnership with the Finima Youth Council (FYC) Environmental Committee, spearheaded a comprehensive cleanup exercise and awareness campaign on Tuesday to commemorate World Environment Day 2025. Themed “End Plastic Pollution”, the campaign emphasised the urgent need to address the growing environmental crisis posed by plastic waste in local communities and around the world.

The exercise was both symbolic and practical — aimed at educating the Finima populace about the dangers of plastic pollution while simultaneously taking tangible steps to reduce its presence in the community. The event commenced at the Finima Community Town Hall, with a brief sensitisation session led by environmental volunteers and youth leaders, before participants fanned out across the six zones of the community for a coordinated cleanup operation.

Mobilizing the Community: A Joint Force for Change

The initiative drew together a diverse group of participants, including youth leaders, community volunteers, PREZICON Ltd staff, and local market women. From early morning, volunteers gathered at the town hall, donning reflective vests, gloves, and cleanup gear. The campaign was strategically organised into two teams, each responsible for covering three zones of Finima — ensuring wide coverage and a more effective collection of plastic waste.

Armed with waste bags and collection tools, the volunteers moved through residential streets, public paths, and commercial hubs, most notably the Finima market. Throughout the day, the teams scavenged plastics from clogged gutters, sidewalks, and open spaces. The work was physically demanding, yet participants remained upbeat, chanting slogans and singing songs to keep the energy high and the atmosphere lively.

Community Turnout and Leadership Support

The level of participation and the enthusiasm displayed by the community underscored a growing environmental awareness among the people of Finima. Many residents, inspired by the sight of the organised teams, joined in spontaneously, while others came out to offer refreshments and moral support. Children peeked curiously from windows and doors, asking questions and learning first-hand about the value of keeping the environment clean.

In a significant gesture of support, the Production Manager (PM) of PREZICON Ltd made a surprise visit to the Finima Community Town Hall where the exercise had begun and where volunteers regrouped at the end of the campaign. Addressing the volunteers, the P.M. applauded the collaborative spirit of the cleanup, praised the residents of Finima for their hospitality, and emphasised PREZICON Ltd’s commitment to environmental sustainability in its host communities.

“This is not just a one-off campaign — it’s part of a broader commitment by PREZICON to ensure that our operations positively impact the environment and our communities. We are proud to partner with the Finima Youth Council in this cause,” the Production Manager said, drawing cheers and applause from the assembled crowd.

The Results: A Cleaner Finima and a Powerful Message

By the conclusion of the campaign in the late afternoon, the teams had successfully collected ten full bags of plastic waste, totalling 117.5 kilograms. These plastics, previously strewn across the community, would have otherwise ended up in waterways or contributed to further environmental degradation.

The recovered waste included plastic bottles, food wrappers, sachet water bags, nylon packaging materials, and other non-biodegradable pollutants. The results were not just quantitative but visual: previously littered pathways looked noticeably cleaner, and several gutters that had been clogged with plastic debris were cleared, improving drainage in the area.

Environmental Advocacy and Reflections from Leadership

At the closing of the event, a small debriefing and celebration were held back at the town hall. Music filled the air as volunteers relaxed after a day of hard work, sharing stories, laughter, and reflections on the impact of their actions.

Addressing the gathering, Comrade Opara Henry Brown, Director of Environment for the Finima Youth Council, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the efforts of everyone involved. In a stirring speech, he highlighted the significance of the collaboration between the youth and corporate stakeholders.

“This campaign is proof that when we come together with a shared purpose, we can make real change. The volume of plastic waste we collected today is a wake-up call. We must do more to protect our environment — not just on World Environment Day, but every single day,” Comrade Brown stated.

He further commended the PREZICON Ltd team for their unwavering support and praised the staff and volunteers for the discipline, unity, and teamwork they demonstrated throughout the exercise.

“Our volunteers displayed not only commitment but also leadership,” he said. “The Environmental Committee was on the ground from start to finish, actively coordinating logistics and ensuring the smooth execution of the campaign. I am proud of what we have achieved here today.”

A Call for Sustainability and Ongoing Action

While the success of the cleanup was evident, speakers at the event also stressed that the work must continue. Several community leaders used the occasion to call for the establishment of regular sanitation drives, stronger waste management systems, and environmental education in schools to inculcate eco-conscious habits from a young age.

The FYC Environmental Committee revealed plans to collaborate further with local businesses, schools, and religious institutions to scale up awareness and implement a more robust waste collection and recycling system within Finima. Proposals are also in the pipeline for youth-led plastic repurposing projects that will convert waste materials into reusable items like eco-bricks and art installations.

Community Feedback and the Road Ahead

Residents interviewed during the event expressed satisfaction and hope. Mrs Janet Barikor, a long-time market vendor, said, “We’ve seen floods here because the gutters are blocked with nylons and bottles. What these young people did today gives us hope. It shows they care about the future.”

Similarly, Emmanuel Ibim, a student volunteer, shared his perspective: “It was hard work, but it felt good. I learnt a lot, and I know now that we can’t keep waiting for the government. We have to start in our communities.”

The general sentiment echoed a powerful truth — environmental preservation begins with local action, and partnerships like that between PREZICON Ltd and the FYC Environmental Committee are vital in driving such change.

Conclusion

The World Environment Day campaign in Finima was more than just a cleanup exercise; it was a bold step toward environmental responsibility, community ownership, and sustainable development. It showed that with the right will, even modest resources can create significant impact. In the words of one volunteer: “We may have only collected 117.5kg of plastic today, but the real weight of this effort is the message it sends — that Finima is rising for the environment.”

Reported by:
Omie D. Brown
Public Relations Officer,
FYC Environmental Committee
On behalf of the Director of Environment, FYC (Comr. Opara Henry Brown)

Finima in Bonny Local Government Area: The Economic Hub of Grand Bonny and Nigeria

Finima is nestled along the picturesque coastlines of Rivers State in Nigeria. It is an enchanting locality. It is not just a geographical entity but a vibrant tableau of cultural heritage and economic activities. Finima serves as the economic engine of Grand Bonny, contributing significantly to the local and national economies. Finima has a rich tapestry of history, tradition, and leadership. Its narrative is intertwined with the legacy of the Buoye Omuso Brown Major House. The revered Amadabo of Finima is also part of this narrative. This article will explore the economic and cultural significance of Finima. It will spotlight its leadership strides and initiatives. These efforts position Finima as a cornerstone of growth in the region.

The Cultural Heritage of Finima

Finima’s culture is deeply rooted in its historical narratives, community, and leadership. The Buoye Omuso Brown Major House is the paramount ruling house of Finima. It plays an integral role in the preservation of the area’s cultural heritage. It also promotes this rich culture. Through festivals, traditional rites, and communal celebrations, the heritage of Finima is preserved. It is also celebrated as a testament to the resilience and identity of its people.

Key Elements of Finima’s Cultural Heritage:

  • Traditional Festivals: Events that showcase the artistry, dance, and oral traditions of Finima’s communities.
  • Cultural Rites: Ceremonies marking important life transitions, often steeped in traditional beliefs and practices.
  • Art and Craft: Local artisans exhibiting unique craftsmanship that tells the story of Finima’s rich cultural history.

“Cultural heritage is a treasure chest that holds the stories of our past and the blueprints for our future.” – Unknown

Economic Growth in Finima

The economic landscape of Finima is characterised by a blend of traditional and modern enterprises. Finima serves as the industrial heart of Grand Bonny. It is a hub for economic activities. This is thanks in part to the presence of various oil and gas companies, shipping industries, and vibrant local businesses.

Major Economic Activities in Finima:

SectorDescription
Oil and GasHome to several oil companies contributing to national revenue.
FisheriesRich coastal waters offer ample seafood for local and export markets.
AgricultureCultivation of crops that sustain local populations and economies.
TourismPromoting local attractions, heritage sites, and eco-tourism opportunities.

Key Economic Drivers:

  • Natural Resources: The strategic location of Finima gives it access to valuable resources, significantly enhancing its economic opportunities.
  • Local Government Support: Expected Initiatives by the Bonny Local Government Area are to boost local industries and entrepreneurship. These initiatives should create a conducive environment for business growth. Yet, this has not been happening. Instead, Buoye Omuso Brown House takes decisive action. They manage their affairs in Finima and its natural territories.
  • Leadership Initiatives: The role of Finima Leadership in promoting policies that encourage investments and infrastructural development is crucial.

Finima Leadership

At the forefront of Finima’s sustainable growth is its leadership. The role of the Amadabo of Finima cannot be understated. This traditional ruler’s guidance and influence foster unity, tradition, and progress. The leadership structure is rooted in collaborative governance that incorporates both traditional and modern practices.

Leadership Attributes of Finima:

  • Visionary Leadership: Leaders set a strategic vision for development while incorporating cultural values into governance.
  • Community Engagement: Strong emphasis on involving community members in decision-making processes ensures that all voices are heard.
  • Sustainable Development Goals: Leaders in Finima are increasingly aligning local policies with broader sustainable development initiatives. They are aiming for an integrated approach to growth.

Initiatives by Finima Leadership:

  1. Education and Capacity Building: Empowering the youth through educational programs and skills training to prepare them for future economic challenges.
  2. Infrastructure Development: Investment in necessary infrastructure, such as roads and transportation systems, to enhance connectivity and boost local commerce.
  3. Cultural Preservation: Campaigns to document cultural practices, art forms, and history, ensuring the transmission of heritage to future generations.

Challenges and Prospects

While Finima is on the path of progress, it faces several challenges that require concerted efforts from its leaders and the community:

  • Environmental Concerns: The industrial activities have raised concerns about environmental sustainability, which necessitates rigorous monitoring and regulation.
  • Infrastructure Deficits: Although strides have been made, there is a need for continued investment in infrastructure to support economic activities.
  • Cultural Erosion: Global influences can sometimes overshadow local traditions. Hence, community leaders must engage actively in cultural preservation.

Despite these challenges, the prospects for Finima stay bright. With robust leadership, Finima can continue to develop into an economic titan. It will not only lead Grand Bonny but also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic landscape.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Finima stands as a beacon of cultural heritage and economic vitality in Nigeria. The role of the Buoye Omuso Brown Major House highlights the importance of leadership in promoting cultural preservation. The guidance of the Amadabo of Finima emphasises economic growth.

Finima continues to thrive. The synergy between its traditional roots and contemporary advancements can serve as a model for other regions. Finima champions local entrepreneurship. It invests in infrastructure and preserves cultural legacies. Finima is poised to lead in economic endeavours. It also sets a precedent for harmonious living that respects its rich past while embracing a prosperous future.

Finima will stay a vital hub in Grand Bonny and Nigeria at large for generations to come. This is achieved by fostering a strong community spirit. It also involves supporting sustainable practices.

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