The Oyo State Government has restated its determination to promote a clean, secure, and environmentally sustainable state for residents.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr. Ademola Aderinto, made this known on Wednesday in Ibadan during a press briefing held to commemorate the 2026 World Earth Day.
He explained that this year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” highlights the shared responsibility of individuals, communities, and institutions in safeguarding the environment.
According to him, protecting the planet is not the duty of government alone, but a collective obligation that requires active participation from all segments of society.
The commissioner said activities lined up for the celebration would run under the programme titled “Walk for the Planet,” scheduled between Wednesday and Saturday.
Aderinto warned that global environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss continue to threaten public health and sustainable development.
He added that these global issues are already evident locally through rising waste levels, plastic pollution, indiscriminate dumping, and the effects of rapid urban expansion.
He noted that the state government has intensified enforcement of environmental sanitation laws while also expanding public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible environmental practices.
He further disclosed that in 2025, the ministry introduced the “Oyo Plastic Drive” in partnership with a non-governmental organisation, For Nature and Future Eci-Green Initiatives (FONAFEGI), aimed at tackling plastic waste.
The initiative, he said, focuses on reducing plastic pollution, promoting recycling, and encouraging circular economy practices across the state.
Aderinto urged residents to adopt proper waste disposal habits, reduce the use of single-use plastics, and actively participate in environmental sanitation programmes.
He also encouraged citizens to renew their commitment to preserving the environment for current and future generations.
In his goodwill message, the Executive Director of FONAFEGI, Mr. Elijah Adejimi, stressed that World Earth Day serves as a reminder of humanity’s responsibility to protect natural resources.
He called for greater environmental stewardship through tree planting and other eco-friendly initiatives that can help improve climate conditions.
The event also featured a symbolic tree-planting exercise led by the commissioner and other stakeholders within the premises of the ministry.