In a new commitment, Mr Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, the Oyo State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, has pledged to ensure that Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, becomes one of the cleanest cities in Nigeria within the next year.
He made this announcement during a town hall meeting with environmental sector stakeholders, under the theme “Make Oyo State Sparkling Clean, Own Your Action,” held at the House of Chiefs, Oyo State Secretariat on Thursday.
As part of this commitment, Commissioner Mogbonjubola declared that, starting next Wednesday, he would lead an enforcement team to address environmental infractions in Mokola, Molete, and Ring Road in Ibadan, and to apprehend individuals who dispose of waste indiscriminately. To ensure compliance with the state’s environmental laws, he also announced the establishment of environment courts in the 11 local government areas in Ibadan.
Furthermore, the state government plans to take action against waste collectors who dump waste on the roadside instead of designated dumpsites, aiming to prevent a show of shame and to seize the trucks involved in such actions. Commissioner Mogbonjubola acknowledged the challenge of inadequate landfills and promised to rectify the situation by making the existing three landfills more efficient and introducing six additional landfills in Ibadan to manage the increasing volume of waste.
In the pursuit of a clean environment, Commissioner Mogbonjubola mentioned the possibility of decentralizing waste management by involving more waste contractors if the current contractor proves to be ineffective. To reinforce environmental law enforcement, he suggested assigning the Oyo State Waste Management Authority with specific duties in this regard. The ministry also pledged to continue advocacy efforts against indiscriminate waste disposal, with a long-term goal of encouraging recycling by educating the public about proper waste sorting.
In addition to waste management, the commissioner outlined plans to address flooding issues by clearing blocked water channels and enhancing hygiene standards in the state. These efforts will include constructing public toilets and hygiene facilities in schools, parks, markets, and public spaces.
Deputy Governor Mr. Bayo Lawal, in his remarks at the event, emphasized the state government’s commitment to ensuring a cleaner environment.
He mentioned the intention to employ more sanitary inspectors and to actively combat practices such as illegal trading, indiscriminate waste disposal, and other environmental infractions. Mr Lawal stressed the importance of adopting a culture of cleanliness and encouraged all residents to participate actively in maintaining a clean and disease-free environment.
This event brought together various stakeholders from the environmental sector, who offered recommendations on how the state can effectively manage waste and promote environmental cleanliness.
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