Makinde vows to fix waste management, swears in new environment commissioner

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared that his administration will confront deeply rooted cultural behaviours undermining environmental sustainability and effective waste management across the state.

The governor made this known on Friday during the swearing-in of Pastor Ademola Temitayo Aderinto as Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources at the Executive Chambers of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

Speaking after the administration of the oath of office and the signing of the oath book, Makinde admitted that his government still has significant work to do in the areas of environmental protection and waste management. He, however, assured residents that noticeable improvements would be recorded before the end of his tenure, while stressing the need for public cooperation.

According to the governor, appointments in his administration are guided by competence, capacity and the values nominees bring to governance, rather than political affiliation or godfatherism.

Congratulating Aderinto on his appointment, Makinde also commended the Oyo State House of Assembly for the speedy and thorough confirmation of the nominee.

“I always say that the reward for hard work is more work. So, it is more work for you,” the governor said.

“I also want to thank the Oyo State House of Assembly. We sent his name to you and you did what you had to do within record time. No rancour, no issues. That is how we work in Oyo State—together, for the benefit of our people.

“Pastor Aderinto, you are going to a challenging ministry. There are issues that are culturally entrenched in how we treat our environment, and we must crack them to make things better. You have worked with us before as Special Assistant on Environment, so this is not entirely new terrain. I believe you will do well.”

Makinde charged the new commissioner to hit the ground running, noting that despite the limited time left in the administration, meaningful impact could still be made.

“You are in a race against time. This administration has about 16 months to go. But even in 16 months, you can make a difference and write your name in gold, because public service is an opportunity to show that you are fit for leadership,” he added.

Speaking with journalists after his swearing-in, Aderinto said his ministry would prioritise effective waste management, climate action and environmental protection. He urged residents of the state to cooperate with the government by adopting a culture of cleanliness, proper waste disposal and environmental responsibility.

Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal; the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi; the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, represented by Justice O.A. Adetujoye; the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde, the Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; the Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni; top government officials and other functionaries.