By Abdullahi Jalalludeen
The National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) has announced the introduction of mandatory biometric registration for its members in Kano State.
The decision follows a recent incident where double explosions occurred at two scrap dump sites in Kano, resulting in the loss of over five lives and injuring about 15 people.
According to reports, the explosions were caused by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) imported from Yobe State to scrap companies in Kano.
In response to this incident, NASWDEN has decided to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of its members and the general public.
The biometric registration exercise will capture all members of the association, and a database will be created to record their information.
This initiative aims to promote compliance, accountability, and organized business conduct among members.
The association has also put in place strict disciplinary frameworks to deal with any erring members who fail to register.
Any member found to have evaded the registration exercise will face suspension or expulsion from the association.
Additionally, such members will be reported to relevant law enforcement agencies for prosecution, and their business outlets may be seized or closed.
The association has organized a sensitization workshop for its members to educate them on the importance of the registration exercise and the dangers of importing scrap materials without due diligence.
A door-to-door campaign will also be launched to create more awareness on the risks associated with IEDs and other hazardous materials.
NASWDEN has suspended the importation of scrap and waste goods from Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states, which are currently experiencing insurgency and insecurity.
This decision aims to mitigate the risk of infiltration of harmful materials, especially explosives, through scrutinized scrap transportation.
The association has also ordered a one-week suspension of the movement of scrap materials within Kano State metropolis.
This pause in operation will allow the association to conduct a wide-reaching public enlightenment campaign and internal audit of scrap activities within the city.
The introduction of mandatory biometric registration for NASWDEN members in Kano State is a welcome development that aims to promote safety and security in the scrap and waste management industry.
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