In line with the OUR EASE Agenda of the Aiyedatiwa-led administration, Ondo State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko, has highlighted the critical role of collaboration between government and private stakeholders in achieving the state’s environmental objectives.
Dr. Loko made the remarks in Akure during a courtesy visit by members of the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), led by its Chairman, Mrs. Boladale Omowumi Akinyanmi. Welcoming the delegation, the Commissioner lauded the Society’s commitment and emphasized the ministry’s readiness to partner with relevant organizations to advance sustainable environmental initiatives.
Addressing the state’s environmental challenges, Dr. Loko noted that Ondo generates significant volumes of waste daily, with existing partners unable to serve every community, often resulting in indiscriminate dumping. “We are reaching out to partners to collaborate, especially in providing service trucks for waste collection,” he stated. He further described municipal solid waste as a valuable resource, noting that the Ondo State Environmental Protection Agency (OSEPA) has already initiated recycling partnerships with private investors. “Beyond plastic recycling, other components of waste can also be recycled to create jobs for our youths and generate revenue for the state,” he added.
On climate change, Dr. Loko stressed its global impact and noted that Ondo State faces flooding, erosion, and environmental degradation. He revealed that the ministry has developed proactive measures to address these challenges. He also emphasized tree planting as a key strategy for environmental protection, noting its role in mitigating the effects of ozone depletion and emissions.
In her remarks, Mrs. Akinyanmi congratulated Dr. Loko on his appointment and described NES as a non-profit organization committed to environmental sustainability. She urged the state government to maintain consistency in environmental policies, avoid program discontinuity, and embrace long-term sustainability initiatives. She also encouraged private sector participation, advocating for banks and eateries to align with the green vision, while discouraging the use of synthetic grass in public spaces. Mrs. Akinyanmi commended the Commissioner’s passion for change and pledged NES’s support in achieving a cleaner, greener Ondo State.
Responding, the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Kinga Olumide, thanked the NES delegation and affirmed the ministry’s openness to constructive input and collaboration, emphasizing its importance in shaping effective environmental policies.
The meeting was attended by directors of the Ministry of Environment and executive members of the Nigerian Environmental Society.
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