…trains climate change desk officers across the State

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening climate governance and expanding climate action to the grassroots, as part of efforts to position the State as a national leader in environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

The achievement was revealed during a Sensitization and Familiarization Programme for Climate Change Desk Officers across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Authorities (LCDAs) in the State, themed: “Empowering Local Action for a Cleaner and Climate-Resilient Oyo State.”

Declaring the programme open, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet and Special Services Department, Mr. Ojelabi Olusola, described the ranking improvement as evidence of deliberate and measurable climate actions by Governor Makinde administration.

He said the State Government remained committed to extending climate governance initiatives to local governments, Community Development Associations (CDAs) and MDAs to ensure sustainability.

He also called for effective monitoring mechanisms and periodic reporting to track climate action progress across the State.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, described the development as a reflection of the State Government’s growing commitment to climate resilience and environmental sustainability under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde.

According to him, climate change has become a visible reality affecting livelihoods through flooding, irregular rainfall, rising temperatures, land degradation, food insecurity and biodiversity loss.

He noted that the Government was decentralising climate action by extending environmental initiatives to local governments, communities and institutions across the State.

The commissioner explained that the newly inaugurated climate desk officers would serve as coordinators for environmental reporting, awareness creation, policy implementation and climate risk communication within their respective jurisdictions.

He stressed the importance of regular reporting and monitoring of climate-related activities to enable the State aggregate its carbon reduction efforts and further improve its climate governance profile.

Aderinto highlighted several climate initiatives already undertaken by the State Government, including the procurement of over 1,600 electric motorcycles for political office holders across local governments to reduce carbon emissions.

He also disclosed that the State Government is constructing a 12-megawatt alternative energy power plant within the State secretariat and installing solar-powered streetlights in different parts of Ibadan as part of efforts to promote renewable energy.

Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Olorunpoto Abdulrahman, commended the Ministry of Environment for broadening environmental discussions beyond waste management to include climate resilience and sustainability.

He urged the climate desk officers to become active environmental response coordinators capable of addressing grassroots environmental challenges such as flooding, blocked drainage systems and indiscriminate waste disposal.

Highlighting the State’s previous activities and efforts on climate change, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Dr. Sunday  Ojelabi, outlined several climate-related achievements recorded by the State Government over the years.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Ibadan into a sustainable, resilient and climate smart city through strategic collaboration with the World Bank Group and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, who is also the coordinator for the project, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, stated this while receiving members of the World Bank Group/IFC team on Thursday, in his office following the successful conclusion of the Ibadan Green Cities Action Plan Programme coordinated in collaboration with the Oyo State Government.

Hon. Aderinto noted that the initiative aligns with the vision of Governor Seyi Makinde to position Ibadan as a modern, investment friendly and globally competitive city through sustainable urban development, environmental sustainability, improved urban mobility, flood resilience and effective waste management systems.

He explained that the programme featured a series of strategic engagements, technical workshops, stakeholder consultations and field assessments involving relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), development partners, private sector stakeholders, transport operators, environmental experts and urban development professionals.

The Commissioner added that sector specific sessions focused on transportation, solid waste management, water and wastewater infrastructure, urban planning, climate adaptation, emergency preparedness, green infrastructure and investment opportunities aimed at improving urban livability and economic competitiveness within Ibadan metropolis.

Earlier, the World Bank Group/IFC delegation was led to the office of the Honourable Commissioner by the Co-coordinator, Hon. Abiodun Oluwaseun Laurel, the Senior Special Assistant on Project Delivery to the Governor, alongside members of the World Bank Group team which included Maryam Njie, Kelvin TAGNIPEZ and Oluwaseun Olowoporoku.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government has issued a public advisory to residents as the 2026 rainy season sets in, urging precautionary measures against flash floods, temporary road overflows, and rising temperatures expected in the coming weeks.

The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, gave the advisory in Ibadan, noting that the State is likely to experience flash floods and thunderstorms due to high intensity rainfall associated with the season’s onset.

He explained that the soil across the State is still relatively firm, limiting water infiltration and causing heavy surface runoff on roads, drainages, and some communities.

He added that residents should not panic, as most flooding is expected to be temporary.

The Commissioner, however, warned that temporary flooding could become prolonged and destructive if waterways and drainage channels cleared by the Government are obstructed or tampered with.

He called for the suspension of illegal dredging and any activity that could disrupt natural water flow.

He further noted that prolonged water retention on roads could damage infrastructure, increase accident risks, and threaten public facilities, while reaffirming Government efforts to maintain free flow of water and urging residents to avoid indiscriminate waste disposal and other environmental violations.

Hon. Aderinto also disclosed that during the transition into the rainy season, occasional heat waves may occur, with temperatures rising to between 33-35°C.

He advised residents to stay hydrated, remain in cool environments, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and seek shade when necessary, while assuring continued Government monitoring of environmental conditions across the State.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government has flagged off the first phase of waste segregation across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), with the distribution of designated bins at the State Secretariat, Ibadan.

The initiative, led by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, is part of broader efforts to promote proper waste management and environmental sustainability in the State.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, said the bins are clearly labelled to support effective waste sorting.

According to him, each set contains separate containers for plastics and bottles, paper materials, and biodegradable waste, a move designed to ease recycling and improve collection efficiency.

Aderinto noted that the programme represents a major step towards institutionalising environmental best practices within Government establishments, adding that MDAs must lead by example through strict adherence to proper waste disposal methods.

He added that the Ministry would strengthen monitoring and enforcement to ensure full compliance with the waste segregation policy.

At the Governor’s Office, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde, commended the initiative and urged sustained advocacy towards achieving a cleaner and healthier Oyo State.

Also receiving the bins, the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, praised the Ministry’s efforts and called for strict compliance with proper waste management practices across all MDAs.

The Government reaffirmed its commitment to policies and programmes aimed at protecting the environment and improving residents’ quality of life.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, has commemorated World Earth Day 2026 with a series of impactful initiatives aimed at promoting a cleaner, greener, and healthier environment.

Speaking at the press conference, the Honourable Commissioner, Engr. Dr. Ademola Aderinto, emphasized the importance of this year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” noting that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility requiring collective action from government, communities, and individuals.

As part of activities to celebrate World Earth Day, the Ministry, in collaboration with For Nature and Future Eco-Green Initiatives (FONAFEGI), conducted a symbolic tree planting exercise during which 100 trees were planted to promote climate action and environmental sustainability.

The Commissioner described tree planting as a critical step toward improving air quality, reducing carbon emissions, preventing soil erosion, and preserving biodiversity.

He further called on residents, organizations, and private sector stakeholders to partner with the Ministry in planting more trees across the State, stressing that sustained collaboration is essential to achieving long-term environmental goals.

Additionally, the World Earth Day celebration features a structured programme tagged “Walk for the Planet,” scheduled from April 22 to April 25, 2026, designed to mobilize grassroots participation and deepen environmental awareness statewide.

The Commissioner also outlined key measures undertaken by the Ministry, including strengthened environmental sanitation enforcement, intensified inspection of markets, eateries, hotels, and industries, and the implementation of a decentralized waste management system across all local government areas.

The Commissioner urged all residents of Oyo State to embrace proper waste management practices, avoid indiscriminate dumping, reduce reliance on single-use plastics, and actively participate in environmental sustainability programmes.

He also commended members of the media and development partners for their continued support in promoting environmental awareness.

The Commissioner stated that as World Earth Day is commemorated, there is a need to renew collective commitment to protecting the environment for present and future generations, noting that the actions taken today will determine the quality of life tomorrow.

In a separate goodwill message, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, stated that World Earth Day serves as a reminder of the realities of climate change and its growing impact on human health.

She noted that science continues to show increasing extreme heat, changing weather patterns, rising temperatures, and shifting disease trends, with some illnesses now occurring outside their usual seasons, particularly around rainfall periods.

According to her, this demonstrates clearly that the climate is changing and demands urgent attention.

Dr. Ajetunmobi emphasized that this year’s activities reflect the importance of environmental sustainability. She stressed the need to sustain and protect the environment through continuous public awareness on tree planting, prevention of deforestation, and proper waste management.

The Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency, Dr. Sola Akande, also delivered his goodwill message, stating that the agency will collaborate with the Ministry of Health and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen environmental health initiatives in the state.

He announced that the agency will enroll all street sweepers in Oyo State into the health insurance scheme to ensure their access to quality healthcare services.

“According to him, this initiative is aimed at protecting those who contribute directly to keeping the environment clean, thereby promoting a healthier, more productive, and sustainable society.

In his welcome address, The Executive Director of FONAGEGI, Mr. Elijah Adejimi, spoke with urgency, calling for collective action to protect the environment. He urged continued tree planting and stewardship, noting that progress so far should inspire renewed commitment to a greener, sustainable future.

The event was attended by dignitaries including the Representative of the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State among others.

E-Signed:

Prince ‘Dotun Oyelade,
Hon.Commissioner for Information,

The Oyo State Government has taken a significant step toward implementing the bilateral study cooperation agreement between Oyo State and the Government of Rwanda on water and sanitation operational models.

Following the earlier visit of the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, to Rwanda for preliminary bilateral talks aimed at exploring areas of mutual benefit, a delegation from the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and the Oyo State Solid Waste Management Authority (OYOWMA) embarked on a collaborative study visit to understudy Rwanda’s water and sanitation operational framework.

The delegation, led by the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, conducted facility inspections and held strategic engagements in Kigali as part of efforts to deepen institutional cooperation and strengthen knowledge exchange between both Governments.

A major highlight of the visit was the inspection of the Masaka Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant currently under construction. The facility is designed to treat faecal sludge for the production of fertilizers for agricultural use, as well as water suitable for agricultural and other non-potable purposes. The generated water can also be further treated for human consumption or food processing where feasible, an option still under consideration by Rwandan authorities.

Hon. Ademola Aderinto noted that the initiative aligns with Oyo State’s present need to develop sustainable and environmentally friendly methods for waste management. He added that Rwanda’s achievement of supplying water to about 90 percent of its citizens further underscores the importance of the collaboration, stressing that Oyo State will gradually begin to implement lessons learned from the study.

The delegation also visited Nduba, where they inspected the operational Nduba dumpsite and the Nduba Sanitary Landfill currently under construction. During the inspection, the team observed sorting and recovery infrastructure in operation, including the production of fertilizer generated from processed waste, and studied the engineering model being deployed for the sanitary landfill, which is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

The delegation also visited the Rwanda Environmental Management Authority (REMA), where they were received by the Deputy Director General, Munyazikwiye Faustin. The team was briefed on the Authority’s regulatory operations and environmental management framework, providing insights into Rwanda’s mechanisms for enforcing environmental standards and ensuring sustainable waste and water management practices.

Hon. Ademola Aderinto thanked the Deputy Director General for the opportunity to learn from Rwanda’s regulatory model, emphasizing that the knowledge gained would help strengthen Oyo State’s environmental governance, particularly in solid and liquid waste management, sanitation infrastructure, and public health improvement across the State.

The Honourable Commissioner was accompanied on the visit by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Dr. Sunday Ojelabi, Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Mr. Kazeem Lamidi, Chairman, Oyo State Solid Waste Management Authority, Mr. Adeniyi Waheed Akanbi, Director of Environmental Engineering, Engr. Mukailia Oladipupo, Director of Engineering Services, OYOWMA, Engr. Wale Afolabi, and Mr. Saheed Falowo.

E-Signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade

Hon. Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

… calls for Residents’ Compliance

The Oyo State Government has heightened actions to restore environmental sanity as the  Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, led his management team on an inspection of ongoing refuse evacuation along major roads within Ibadan, including the Iwo Road axis.

The inspection aimed to assess the progress of the clean-up exercise and address the growing concerns over indiscriminate waste disposal by some residents.

Speaking during the inspection, the Commissioner described the situation as an unfortunate consequence of non-compliance with environmental sanitation laws by some citizens who dump refuse on road medians, drainages, and water channels.

He noted that such practices have created environmental hazards, obstructed water flow, and contributed to flooding and unhealthy surroundings, particularly around busy commercial areas.

He emphasized that the intervention by the Government is a rescue mission to address the immediate environmental mess, stressing that the administration of Seyi Makinde remains committed to safeguarding public health and promoting sustainable development.

According to him, the current exercise is being carried out across multiple locations, including Araromi Market at Iwo Road and sections of the Academy Expressway drainage.

The Commissioner, however, lamented that the funds being utilized for the evacuation exercise could have been channeled into other developmental projects that would directly benefit residents.

He stressed that indiscriminate dumping not only defaces the State but also diverts scarce resources meant for infrastructure and social development.

Aderinto appealed to residents to comply with environmental laws by working closely with accredited waste collectors instead of disposing waste indiscriminately.

He warned that dumping refuse on road medians and in drainages contributes to flooding, endangers public health, and tarnishes the image of the State, discouraging investment and growth.

While acknowledging that the Government is compelled to undertake the costly evacuation exercise due to public complaints, he stressed that such efforts are not sustainable in the long run.

He urged residents to report challenges with waste collectors through appropriate Government channels, including the State’s complaint platforms, rather than taking matters into their own hands.

Aderinto further warned that strict enforcement would follow the clean-up exercise, noting that penalties are already stipulated for offenders under the environmental laws.

E-Signed:

Prince ‘Dotun Oyelade

Hon. Commissioner for Information,Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government has intensified efforts to actualize its Waste-to-Wealth initiative with the inspection of a proposed 44- Acre facility at Elere Village along the Ido–Eruwa Road, Ibadan.

The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, led a management team on the site visit to assess its readiness and ensure compliance with environmental standards.

During the inspection, technical experts provided detailed briefings on the project’s operational framework, environmental safeguards, and projected economic benefits. The facility is designed to convert municipal waste into valuable by-products such as electricity, biofuel, fertilizer, construction materials, and other reusable resources.

According to the project team, the plant will operate an integrated system featuring an automated conveyor-based mechanism to sort recyclable materials like metals and plastics before combustion.

Speaking during the visit, Hon. Aderinto emphasized that the site selection was carefully done to protect nearby communities and preserve air and water quality. He added that the facility would incorporate sanitary landfill systems capable of achieving up to 97 percent material recovery, leaving minimal residual waste for controlled disposal.

He noted that the initiative aligns with the State Government’s vision of transforming waste management into an economic driver, creating jobs, and reducing environmental pollution.

Technical experts from Sector Lead Limited disclosed that the combustion system would capture about 64 percent of fly ash generated, with cement manufacturers already positioned to utilize the by-product. They added that emissions from the plant would largely consist of water vapor, in line with global environmental standards.

The team further revealed that bottom ash would be repurposed for road construction, while approximately 12,000 tons of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) produced monthly has already secured buyers for power generation.

Hon. Aderinto stated that the facility is expected to serve Ibadan and surrounding areas, including the Ibarapa axis, while also reducing the cost of waste evacuation for residents.

He added that the project would produce electricity, bio cooking gas, fertilizer, and other value-added products, reinforcing the state’s commitment to sustainable environmental management.

The Commissioner reaffirmed that Oyo State is on track to pioneer modern waste-to-wealth technology in Nigeria, setting a benchmark for other States.

E-Signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade

Hon. Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government has issued an urgent Environmental health advisory following a severe heat stress alert from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), warning residents to take immediate precautions as temperatures soar to dangerous levels.

According to the Commissioner, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, said the ongoing heatwave is not isolated to Oyo State but part of a nationwide surge in temperatures affecting several States across Nigeria.

He added that with daytime temperatures reaching as high as 41°C, there is a heightened risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke, particularly during this peak dry season.

Aderinto emphasized the need for residents to remain vigilant and adopt practical safety measures to protect their health and well-being.

He urged residents to limit outdoor activities, especially between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM when the sun is at its peak. For those who must be outdoors, staying under shade, particularly natural tree cover, was strongly recommended as an effective way to reduce heat exposure.

The Commissioner stressed that proper hydration remains critical even when they don’t feel thirsty, urging residents to drink at least two to three litres of water daily and consume water-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables to help regulate body temperature.

He further encouraged the use of light, breathable clothing and protective items such as hats, umbrellas, and sunglasses. Ensuring proper ventilation in homes and workplaces, he added, is essential to reduce indoor heat buildup.

Aderinto also issued a strong warning against leaving children, elderly people, or pets inside parked vehicles, noting that temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly to fatal levels within minutes.

Residents are encouraged to watch for early signs of heat stress, including dizziness, fatigue, and convulsions, Nausea and to check on vulnerable neighbours who may require assistance.

Beyond immediate safety measures, the Commissioner highlighted the broader environmental implications of the heatwave, urging citizens to protect existing green spaces and actively participate in tree-planting initiatives to mitigate long-term heat effects.

He reassured the public of the Government’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property and pledged to provide timely updates as weather conditions evolve.

OYO STATE URGENT ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ADVISORY: HEAT STRESS ALERT

The Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, following a NiMet advisory, warns of extreme heat reaching 41°C. This is affecting Oyo and several other states.

STAY SAFE WITH THESE SURVIVAL TACTICS:

• HYDRATE: Drink water constantly, even if not thirsty.
• SEEK SHADE: Stay indoors or in well-ventilated AREAS, and externally preferably under tree shades, especially between 12 PM – 4 PM.
• DRESS LIGHT: Wear breathable, light-colored clothing and use umbrellas.
• VEHICLE SAFETY: NEVER leave children or pets in parked cars.
• MONITOR: Watch for dizziness or nausea and seek cool areas immediately, or immediate medical attention where necessary.

Please share this to all broadcast platforms to protect our community.

Stay cool and stay safe.

Kindly share across all platforms.

E-signed:

Ademola Aderinto,

Honourable Commissioner for Environment & Natural Resources, Oyo State

The Oyo State Government has concluded the final inspection of proposed project sites under the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project- European Investment Bank (NEWMAP-EIB) intervention across the three senatorial zones of the State, paving the way for the commencement of construction works.

The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, who led the inspection team, described the exercise as the final stage in the assessment of locations selected for the intervention, adding that the State has now met the key requirements for the take-off of the project.

According to him, the intervention will bring long-awaited relief to communities grappling with erosion and environmental degradation.

He noted that the successful completion of the preparatory processes was made possible through the commitment and support of the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, whose administration has prioritised tackling erosion challenges, strengthening climate change adaptation, and improving environmental sustainability across the State.

Hon. Aderinto assured residents of the affected communities that with the completion of all required processes, the NEWMAP-EIB project is set to move into the implementation phase.

During the inspection, the Commissioner and members of the team interacted with residents and community stakeholders in the project-affected areas.

Many expressed appreciation to the State Government and shared their hopes that the intervention would bring lasting solutions to the environmental challenges confronting their communities.

He also emphasised the need for sustained community cooperation to ensure the success and long-term sustainability of the project.

The Commissioner further advised residents to desist from practices such as open defecation and indiscriminate dumping of refuse, especially around streams and waterways, noting that such activities undermine environmental safety and could weaken the impact of erosion control efforts.

Sites inspected during the visit included Aborerin Stream in Eruwa (Ibarapa East Local Government Area), Fedomu Stream in Igbeti (Olorunsogo Local Government Area), and erosion sites within Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso.

The inspection exercise forms part of the concluding activities ahead of the commencement of the NEWMAP-EIB intervention project across the State.

The Commissioner was accompanied on the visit by the Project Coordinator, Barr. Tayo Ayoade, and members of the Oyo State Project Management Unit (OYO NEWMAP-EIB).

Bukola Bakare

Communication Officer