By Odunayo Oluwabukola, Ibadan
The Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has said his administration would pay priority to the environmental wellness of residents in line with the ‘Own Your Action’ agenda of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.
In this regard, the governor expressed the willingness of his administration to recruit more Environmental Health Officers in the state.
The governor spoke at a stakeholders’ meeting tagged ‘Make Oyo State Sparkling Clean’; Own Your Action, held in Ibadan, with the theme: “Let’s Join Hands”, on 26th October, 2023.
He said the vision encapsulates the present administration’s commitment to sustainable development.
The gathering which had in attendance residents and stakeholders sensitized them on expected roles and duties towards achieving a sparkling clean environment in Oyo State.
Represented by his deputy, Barrister Adebayo Lawal, the governor emphasized the importance of environmental cleanliness in the state.
He added that the gathering will consolidate on the new waste management architecture in Oyo State and strategies to create a more sustainable environment.
He affirmed the need for collective responsibilities towards ensuring a habitable State, which will also be a source of pride and inspiration for all.
According to him, “A clean environment is not just about aesthetics but also has direct impact our health, wellness and quality of life.”
“This gathering is in line with our administration’s commitment to prevent, control flooding, and promote environmental cleanliness,” he said.
He clarified that pollution, litter, and unhealthy surroundings have adverse effects on public health, which can lead to the spread of diseases.
“We must take sanitation as a daily commitment, ingrained in our lives and culture,” he said.
The governor condemned open disposal of refuse, saying it is detrimental to the beauty of the state, adding that it is a severe threat to public health.
He also called on residents, government agencies, and private organizations to join hands and make Oyo State truly sparkling clean.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Arc. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, on his part, also charged residents and stakeholders to make Oyo State (Ibadan) Sparkling Clean-
In his words, “Let’s join hands…this is not a mere rhetorics, but a clarion call to action. It beckons us to envision a state where cleanliness is not only a virtue but a way of life, where our natural surroundings radiate with a brilliance that mirrors the vibrancy of our communities”.
He added that, “the challenge before us is considerable, but so too is the potential for positive change….In our pursuit of progress, it is crucial to recognize the integral role each individual plays in fostering sustainable practices, particularly in waste management, clean and green initiatives, and addressing broader environmental concerns”.
He called for a collective journey towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Oyo State, where actions today lay the foundation for a vibrant and thriving tomorrow.
The Commissioner hinted that Oyo State’s sustainable development hinges on a collective effort to address pressing environmental challenges.
Architect Mogbonjubola affirmed the Ministry’s commitment towards addressing the challenges that come with a growing population in His Excellency’s Roadmap for Sustainable Development in Omituntun 2.0.
He stressed that indiscriminate dumping of refuse will face consequences, saying, “Our determination to implement sanctions and penalties against those who disregard our environment remains resolute. A cleaner Oyo State demands accountability. ”
“The beauty of our state is not just in its people but also in its landscapes. Landscaping and beautification projects will continue to unfold, transforming public spaces into oases of tranquillity and harmony, “he said.
Present at the townhall meeting were the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade; Special Advisers to the Executive Governor of the State; the Head of Service, Mrs. Bunmi Oni; the Managing Director, Mottainai Recycling Ltd, Mr. Adey Adewuyi; Chairmen and Supervisors of Local governments; Permanent Secretaries; traditional heads, Religious leaders, Market men and women, Non-governmental Organizations, representatives of Banks and firms, Environmental Consultants, Industry and facility owners are host of others Stakeholders in the State.