By Oyo Amebo
Oyo State, a vibrant region in southwestern Nigeria, has long struggled with waste management issues that have posed a significant threat to public health and the environment.
But thanks to the innovative leadership of its Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Barr.Temilola Seun Ashamu, the state is turning the tide on this long-standing problem.
Ashamu, a young and dynamic leader, has approached the issue of waste management with a fresh perspective. Working in tandem with the governor, Seyi Makinde, he has implemented a series of initiatives that are not only addressing the immediate challenges, but also laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly future.
One of Ashamu’s key innovations has been the introduction of a Private Sector Participation (PSP) reform in the state’s waste collection process.
By reorganising waste collection in Ibadan, the state’s capital, into 11 zonal clusters and bringing in over 190 licensed PSPs under the ministry’s oversight, Ashamu has not only improved service delivery but also increased accountability.
In addition, Ashamu has launched a concerted campaign to educate the public about responsible waste disposal, which has helped to promote a greater sense of civic responsibility. This, in turn, has led to increased cooperation with waste management officials and a reduction in illegal dumping.
But Ashamu’s efforts don’t stop there. He has also been championing initiatives that focus on climate resilience and biodiversity protection, such as tree planting and drainage desilting, which are essential for mitigating the impact of climate change on the state’s urban centres.
Perhaps the most noteworthy of these initiatives is the establishment of an early warning system in Ibadan, which is the first of its kind on the African continent. This system alerts residents to potential flooding, thereby helping to save lives and property.
These concerted efforts have not gone unnoticed. In a recent address, Ashamu highlighted the progress that has been made under his leadership. He noted the planting of nearly 30,000 trees, the revitalisation of 111 hectares of forest reserves, and the desilting of 153 kilometres of drainage systems. These achievements are testament to his commitment to a greener future for Oyo State.
But Ashamu is not content to rest on his laurels. Looking to the future, he envisions a comprehensive recycling system that will further reduce waste in the state.
Ashamu’s unwavering dedication to transforming Oyo State’s environment has earned him widespread admiration. His approach to environmental governance serves as an exemplar for other regions of the country that are grappling with similar challenges.
Indeed, Ashamu’s leadership illustrates that with the right combination of vision, innovation, and collective effort, even the most intractable environmental issues can be addressed in a way that benefits both people and the planet.
