NECA, Oyo govt partner to boost environmental, business sustainability

The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has expressed its commitment to partnering with the Oyo State Government to promote a healthy and sustainable business environment across the state.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement with the theme, “Strengthening Public-Private Dialogue for Environmental Sustainability in Oyo State,” held at Seminar Hall, Jogor Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday,

NECA’s Director General, Mr Adewale-Smart Oyerinde, underscored the importance of mutual collaboration between the public and private sectors in fostering development.

Oyerinde praised the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources for demonstrating a willingness to engage with the organised private sector, describing it as a positive signal for long-term cooperation.

“Government needs the private sector to drive development, just as the private sector needs an enabling environment supported by appropriate laws and regulations. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship, and if we fail to collaborate, the general public will bear the consequences,” he said.

He added that NECA was pleased to take this step with the Ministry and pledged continued engagement for the benefit of businesses and citizens alike.

Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr Temilolu Ashamu, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to fostering a transparent and supportive regulatory environment.

He noted the state government’s readiness to offer technical assistance, engage in consistent stakeholder consultations, and promote collaborative initiatives that align with environmental goals.

“Our doors are open for dialogue, partnership, and innovation. We are committed to making environmental sustainability a key pillar of development in Oyo State,” he said.

Ashamu called on stakeholders to go beyond mere compliance with environmental regulations and become active champions of sustainability. He emphasized the private sector’s vital role in driving economic growth, innovation, and job creation, noting that sustainable development cannot be achieved by government alone.

Similarly, Chairman of the Oyo State House of Assembly Committee on Environment, Ecology and Water Resources, Honourable Olorunpoto Rahaman, assured participants of the legislature’s openness to continued engagement with the private sector.

“Beyond dialogue, we must take actions that inspire responsibility and reinforce our collective commitment to building a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Oyo State,” he said.

The Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) for Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti states, represented by the Treasurer, Mr Sunday Aboriomoh, urged the Ministry of Environment to actively involve MAN in policy formulation affecting the environment.

Aboriomoh called for closer collaboration between the Ministry and the State Assembly to create a truly enabling environment for businesses. He highlighted challenges facing manufacturers, including rising exchange rates and high interest rates, which he said have forced many companies to close or operate far below capacity.

He appealed to the government to intervene by encouraging banks to offer lower interest rates to manufacturers, thereby promoting economic growth and stability in Oyo State.

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