The Oyo State Government has flagged off the 2026 World Environment Day celebration with a comprehensive week-long programme aimed at promoting environmental sustainability, climate action, and responsible practices across the state.
The announcement was made during a press briefing held at the Conference Room of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, where the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, commenced the state’s World Environment Week.
Hon. Aderinto explained that while World Environment Day is observed globally on June 5, Oyo State has expanded the event into a week-long programme to emphasize that environmental protection is a daily responsibility rather than a one-day activity.
He highlighted that the state government has significantly strengthened daily sanitation through rigorous monitoring and enforcement, while directing all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to maintain high standards of sanitation within their premises.
“The celebration has already begun with community outreach programmes across several wards,” the Commissioner stated. “These include public enlightenment campaigns, practical demonstrations on waste segregation, advocacy against indiscriminate plastic disposal, and community tree-planting exercises.”
To ensure long-term impact, the Ministry has mobilized religious institutions and environmental vanguards to support advocacy efforts.
Furthermore, from Tuesday to Thursday, the Ministry will conduct environmental sensitization and hands-on training in selected schools, including St. Louis Grammar School, Loyola College, and Bishop Phillips Academy, Ibadan. This initiative aims to equip youth with environmental knowledge and revitalize “Clean and Green Clubs” to cultivate the next generation of environmental leaders.
Outlining the activities for the grand finale on Friday, June 5, Hon. Aderinto announced the commissioning of a new public toilet facility to combat open defecation and improve public hygiene, as well as the launch of a 10,000-tree planting exercise, a major milestone in the state’s broader “One Million Trees Initiative.”
Additionally, the celebration will feature awards for individuals and organizations contributing to environmental sustainability, the unveiling of new work uniforms for sanitation personnel, and the relaunch of the “Clean Market Initiative.”
During the briefing, Hon. Aderinto urged residents to adopt eco-friendly habits to build a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Oyo State. He also took a moment to commiserate with the Government and people of Oyo State regarding the recent abduction of pupils and teachers, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to working with security agencies to ensure that state forest reserves remain dedicated to conservation rather than criminal activities.
In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Sunday Ojelabi, underscored the necessity of preserving the environment for future generations. He described the theme of this year’s celebration, “Inspired by Nature for Climate and Our Future,” as a timely call to action for governments, businesses, and individuals to balance the interests of “People, Planet, and Profit” to ensure sustainable development.
