By Oyo Amebo
In a display of youthful ambition, Barr. Seun Ashamu has taken the helm of the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, seamlessly transitioning from his prior role in the Ministry of Energy.
Not long after assuming his new responsibilities, Ashamu has harnessed his dynamic spirit to propel the ministry towards becoming Nigeria’s leading sub-national advocate for climate action and sustainable practices.
At a recent Omituntun 2.0 Inter-Ministerial Briefing, Ashamu emphasised that the Ministry’s mandate extended far beyond the traditional view of waste management.
He articulated a vision rooted in environmental reforms that encompass urban waste management, climate resilience, and ecological infrastructure.
With a commitment to transparency and innovation, the ministry aims to foster a cleaner, healthier environment for all Oyo residents and future generations.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration has embedded environmental governance as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
Ashamu highlighted the ministry’s proactive measures in climate action, such as the planting of approximately 30,000 trees over the past six years, covering 111 hectares of the state’s forest reserves.
These efforts are not merely aesthetic; they play a crucial role in biodiversity and environmental health, ensuring that ecosystems thrive and communities benefit from the cooling effects of urban greenery.
The commissioner also detailed significant advancements in climate resilience. With proactive measures like the desilting of 153 kilometers of blocked drains and the dredging of 18 flood-prone streams, Oyo is actively mitigating the impact of flooding, a pressing concern for many residents.
A standout initiative includes the establishment of an early warning system in Ibadan, the first of its kind in Africa, which alerts residents 72 hours before potential floods, enhancing community safety and preparedness.
The system exemplified how technology can be harnessed to protect lives and property, showcasing Oyo’s commitment to innovative solutions in the face of climate challenges.
In addressing waste management, Ashamu has introduced a Private Sector Participation (PSP) reform that restructured waste collection in Ibadan into 11 zonal clusters, effectively improving service delivery.
The Ministry has registered over 190 licensed PSPs, ensuring that waste management is both efficient and accountable. Public engagement campaigns have educated residents about proper waste disposal, leading to the prosecution of illegal dumpers and traders.
By actively involving the community in these initiatives, Ashamu is fostering a culture of responsibility among citizens, emphasizing that everyone has a role to play in maintaining a clean environment.
Looking towards the future, Ashamu’s vision includes the formalisation of recycling systems and enhanced public awareness initiatives. His proactive stance encouraged citizens to support registered PSPs and refrain from illegal dumping, reinforcing the notion that collective responsibility is vital for a sustainable environment.
He is also committed to expanding tree-planting initiatives aimed at soil stabilisation and urban beautification, further aligning Oyo’s development with the Sustainable Development Goals.
By fostering collaboration and emphasising community engagement, he is not only addressing immediate environmental challenges but also laying the groundwork for a resilient and sustainable future, demonstrating that with vision, innovation, and collective effort, a greener, more sustainable world is not just a possibility but an achievable reality.
Oyo Amebo writes from Ibadan
