Oyo Archives - Page 2 of 9

Oyo Approves N5.8b For Circular Road Property Owners

April 22, 2026 by admin

IBADAN — THE Oyo State Executive Council meeting, chaired by the State Governor, has approved compensation for over 900 property owners whose lands were affected by the ongoing construction of the Ibadan Circular Road In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, a total of N5,813,000,000 (Five Billion, Eight hundred and Thirteen Million Naira) will be paid to these categories of people. The Council noted that the compensation will not only put a stop to the agitation and misinformation surrounding this laudable project, but will also pave the way for accelerated planning and development, foster investors’ confidence, and bring to reality the vision of a transformed urban development of Ibadan and Oyo State as conceived by Governor Seyi Makinde. The Council recalled that over N800,000,000 (Eight Hundred Million Naira) had earlier been paid in the first phase as compensation for displaced persons in the past 18 months According to the Information Commissioner, Oyo State is one of the few states in the Federation that has continued to support the masses since the removal of the fuel subsidy The introduction of the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER), set up by the State Government since 2023, has positively impacted the lives of the masses through interventions such as food relief/palliatives, health insurance, MSME support, and transportation The Council also approved the sum of N710,382,000 (Seven Hundred and Ten Million, Three Hundred and Eighty- Two Thousand Naira) to cover transportation subsidy for the period between March and August 2026. Prince Dotun Oyelade recalled that last year alone, over 4 million commuters, including pensioners, students, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups, benefited from between 50 and 100 percent transportation subsidies in the State. The State Executive Council noted the strategic importance of the ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Okaka Junction–Otu–Igbeti–Kishi road and the construction of bridges over the Otu and Ofiki rivers at a cost of N26,482,664,000 (Twenty-Six Billion, Four Hundred and Eighty-Two Million, Six Hundred and Sixty-Four thousand naira) Council also approved the expansion of this project by N3,981,431,000 (Three Billion, Nine Hundred and Eighty-One Million, Four Hundred and Thirty-One Thousand Naira) According to the Information Commissioner, Council further approved the completion of the Oyo State Christian Wing multipurpose hall, which was initiated over 25 years ago during the administration of Governor Lam Adesina He said that the completion will cost N126,912,000 (One Hundred and Twenty-Six Million, Nine Hundred and Twelve Thousand Naira) Prince Oyelade added further that In continuation of the Administration’s belief in entrenching the State’s culture and expanding it’s global potentials, Council approved the hosting of the Year 2026 Oyo state International Tourism Summit, stressing that the Council believed that the approval will consolidate the huge successes recorded in previous editions.

Oyo PDP Guber Aspirant, Debo Akande Unveils Ibadan Hall Of Fame Project, Targets Preservation Of City’s Legacy

April 7, 2026 by admin

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Dr. Debo Akande, has unveiled plans to establish an Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame as part of efforts to preserve the city’s rich cultural heritage. Akande, who currently serves as the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and Executive Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde, disclosed this during a foundation-laying and groundbreaking ceremony held at Bode Amoo Hall, Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo, under the auspices of the 2026 Historical Tour Committee. Speaking at the event, Debo Akande described the initiative as a long-term vision aimed at creating a lasting legacy for Ibadan and ensuring that its history is preserved for future generations. “This is something that has been very paramount in my mind for a long time. It is not just about today; it is about creating a legacy that will stand the test of time,” he said. He expressed concern over what he termed a growing disconnect between younger generations and the history of Ibadan, noting that many youths lack awareness of the city’s significant contributions to Yoruba culture and national development. “If you ask a young person today about key figures in Ibadan’s history, many may not be able to provide answers. Yet, Ibadan has produced individuals who have made remarkable contributions across different sectors, both locally and internationally,” he added. Akande explained that the proposed Hall of Fame would function as both a museum and a knowledge hub, documenting and showcasing the achievements of past rulers, warriors, professionals, and other distinguished indigenes. “Where is this history documented? Where can people go to see what our heroes have done and when they did it? This project is about answering those questions and preserving our identity as a people,” he said. In his remarks, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief (Barr.) Sulaiman Ajewole, said the project was conceived to immortalise the legacies of Ibadan’s heroes and heroines. Ajewole explained that the Hall of Fame idea originated from a historical subcommittee within the council, and would serve as a platform to honour past rulers, warriors, philanthropists, politicians, and community leaders. “This is how we preserve our history. By documenting and celebrating those who have contributed to the growth of Ibadan, we are ensuring that their names are not forgotten,” he said. He commended Akande for championing the initiative, describing him as a worthy ambassador of Ibadanland, and expressed optimism that the project would be completed within a short time. According to him, the Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame will stand as a major cultural landmark in the city upon completion.

Oyo Lawmakers Seek To Ban Single-Use Plastics, As Bill Scales First Reading

February 12, 2026 by admin

IBADAN – THE Oyo State House of Assembly on Thursday took the first reading of a Bill seeking to prohibit the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of single-use plastics across the State, as part of legislative efforts to curb plastic pollution and promote environmental sustainability. The Bill, titled Oyo State Single-Use Plastics Prohibition (SUPs) Bill, 2026, was read on the floor of the House during plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Edward Ogundoyin. The proposed legislation is jointly sponsored by the Chairman, House Committee on Environment, Ecology and Water Resources, Hon. Olorunpoto Cephas Rahaman (Oyo East/Oyo West), the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin (Ibarapa East), and the Leader of the House, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin (Ogbomoso South). According to the provisions of the Bill, the law seeks to phase out all forms of single-use plastics in Oyo State, including plastic shopping bags, sachet water bags, plastic straws, cutlery, cups, plates and Styrofoam containers commonly used for food and beverage packaging. The Bill also specifically prohibits the use of plastic straws and cutlery in eateries, event centres and other public places. To allow for a smooth transition, the Bill provides for a twelve-month phase-out period from its commencement, during which public sensitisation and behavioural change campaigns will be intensified. The transition period is also expected to enable manufacturers, vendors and consumers to adopt biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternatives. The Bill vests enforcement powers in the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, which is mandated to establish a Task Force on Plastic Pollution Control to monitor compliance and enforce the law. The Task Force is to collaborate with Local Government Authorities, civil society organisations, environmental marshals and security agencies, while the Ministry may also deploy digital tracking mechanisms and whistleblower reports to strengthen enforcement. The proposed law outlines graduated penalties for offenders, ranging from warnings and mandatory environmental awareness training for first-time offenders to heavy fines, compulsory corporate social responsibility projects and possible closure of business premises for repeat offenders. Companies that continue the production of single-use plastics after the expiration of the phase-out period will also be liable to a special environmental tax of not less than 500 per cent of the regular production tax. In addition, the Bill makes provisions for the promotion of biodegradable and compostable products by supporting local manufacturers, facilitating access to technical assistance and encouraging research and development through partnerships with academic and research institutions. It also proposes incentives such as tax waivers, grants, subsidies and preferential procurement policies for businesses producing eco-friendly alternatives. The Bill further mandates medium and large-scale businesses operating in the State to commit to corporate environmental responsibility through community-based sanitation and periodic environmental clean-up activities. Provisions are also included to promote recycling through investments in waste collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure, as well as public-private partnerships to establish recycling hubs across Local Government Areas.

Oyo PDP Celebrates Ogundoyin’s Exit As Conference of Speakers Chairman, Says “We’re Proud Of You”

February 10, 2026 by admin

IBADAN – THE Oyo State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has congratulated the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Adebo Ogundoyin, on the successful completion of his tenure as Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria. In a statement issued and signed by the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Micheal Ogunsina, the PDP described Ogundoyin’s tenure as impactful and exemplary, noting that his leadership brought renewed vigour, inclusiveness and reforms to the Conference. The party said it was proud of the numerous achievements recorded by the Speaker, stressing that since its formation, the PDP has always put forward its best hands in service to the people, a tradition it said was clearly reflected in Ogundoyin’s stewardship both as Chairman of the Conference of Speakers and as Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly. According to the statement, Ogundoyin emerged as the youngest Chairman in the history of the Conference, a development the party described as symbolic of a generational shift that ushered in a reform-driven and inclusive leadership era. The PDP highlighted the digital transformation of state legislatures during his tenure, noting that through a partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), legislative processes were modernised to enhance transparency, efficiency, accountability and citizen engagement. The party also commended the strengthening of legislative autonomy under his leadership, which it said further institutionalised the independence and voice of state legislatures across the country. It further stated that Ogundoyin deepened intergovernmental relations between the Conference of Speakers and the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, with engagements focusing on constitutional amendments, governance reforms and the strengthening of democracy at sub-national levels. Under his chairmanship, the Conference intensified advocacy for the implementation of financial autonomy for state legislatures and made notable contributions to Nigeria’s constitutional review process. These, the party said, included advocacy for the establishment of state police, devolution of powers to sub-national governments, and expanded international and diplomatic engagements. The statement noted that the Conference held strategic discussions with the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria on legislative development and investment opportunities, as well as engagements with the United States Consul General and the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, focusing on democratic values, legislative accountability and institutional capacity building. The PDP assured Nigerians that despite prevailing challenges, the party remains committed to protecting the interests of the people and will continue to present capable and credible leaders in service to Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

Oyo Govt Celebrates PEPVAN’s 10 Years, Assures of Stronger Future Alliance

December 8, 2025 by admin

Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the state’s event industry, describing the Professional Event Planners and Vendors Association of Nigeria (PEPVAN) as a critical partner in its drive to professionalize the sector. This assurance was given by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Wasiu Olatubosun, at the 10th anniversary celebration of PEPVAN held in Ibadan. The event marked a decade of the association’s growth, collaboration, and contributions to the creative economy. Olatubosun commended PEPVAN for promoting professionalism, innovation, and discipline within the industry, noting that the government intends to deepen collaboration with the association in planning and executing state events. “PEPVAN has demonstrated professionalism, creativity, and discipline. As a key partner, the government will engage them in all state events. Our policies will strengthen the sector and further boost the state’s economy,” he said. The Commissioner highlighted the economic potential of the event industry and underscored the need to curb quackery and unregulated operations. “We recognize the challenges within the industry, including unregistered operators. This is why we are committed to working with credible associations like PEPVAN to set standards, enforce compliance, and support overall growth,” he added. He urged members of the association to uphold ethical standards and maintain excellence in service delivery. “Your success begins with excellence and commitment to your craft. The government will support you, but professionalism must remain your watchword,” he said. According to Olatubosun, the state government is already developing initiatives to support the sector, including training programmes, accreditation support, and full recognition of PEPVAN as a professional body. The Pioneer President of the association, Mr. Mayowa Oloyede said the association’s progress over the last decade demonstrates the need for deeper government engagement. “We want the government to recognize us as an event house and professional body. Most of us live and pay taxes here. We need government patronage and support,” he said. Oloyede recalled the humble beginnings of the association, which he said started with one person who identified the need for an organized platform for event professionals. He noted that despite growth, the industry still battles challenges such as quackery, inadequate manpower, financial constraints, and unfavourable policies. He expressed optimism about the rising profile of Ibadan-based planners. “Ibadan has gained serious momentum. Many of us are well-travelled and exposed, and event planners in Oyo can now compete with anyone globally,” he said. While speaking about the journey of the association so far, the National President of the association, Comrade Adetunji Adekunke popularly known as (Wonders) described the association’s 10-year journey as one defined by resilience, excellence, and unity. Adetunji said, “We have over 500 members nationwide today. In the Southwest, no association can compete with us.” Adekunle said PEPVAN’s collective strength has boosted members’ brands, even contributing to the industry’s recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. On the issue of quackery, he stressed the importance of regular training and inclusivity within the profession. “Event planning is not for women alone. Men are doing well too. Passion, willingness to learn, emotional intelligence, and strong character are essential in this industry,” he said. With government support and the association’s renewed commitment to standards, stakeholders at the event maintained that the next decade holds greater promise for the event industry in Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. Highlights of the event include award presentations, cultural dancing, networking, among others.

Amuda Lauds Makinde For Advancing Community Healthcare In Oyo ••Urges Focus On Rural Health, Empowers Aged Women Through NGO

December 3, 2025 by admin

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aspirant for Akinyele Constituency 1, for the Oyo State House Of Assembly, Dr. Amuda Hafeez, has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his transformative health policies in Oyo State, describing the reforms as a turning point in the delivery of quality healthcare across the state. Dr. Amuda, who holds advanced qualifications from Obafemi Awolowo University, India, and the United States, and a recent postgraduate degree from Lead City University, Ibadan,said Makinde’s initiatives have brought functional healthcare closer to the people, particularly in communities that previously lacked access to basic medical services. Dr. Amuda Hafeez made the remarks on Wednesday during a recent media chat with journalists. Amuda who recently supported aged women in his Constituency with cash gifts through his Non-governmental organization (Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation) noted that Governor Makinde has done exceptionally well in ensuring that primary healthcare centers (PHCs) are functional, staffed, and properly equipped. He said, “Many PHCs now operate at standards comparable to private hospitals. Communities that once struggled to access healthcare can now receive quality services within their neighborhoods.” He also praised Dr. Akin Fagbemi, Chairman of the Oyo State Hospital Management Board, for his contributions to the state’s general hospitals. “Through improved administration, better staffing, and reduced drug prices, Dr. Fagbemi has helped raise public confidence in government hospitals. These efforts have encouraged more people to patronize public health facilities, which is a clear mark of progress,” Dr. Amuda added. While highlighting the activities of his own community initiatives, Dr. Amuda maintained that Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation has been supporting the vulnerable in the society by providing free healthcare services, as well giving out timely monetary support to the aged men and women. He said, “We recently concluded a mega outreach that attended to over 800 people, offering general medical check-ups, essential medications, and eyeglasses. This initiative complements government efforts by reaching those who still face barriers to healthcare access.” On the challenge of brain drain in the health sector, Dr. Amuda noted that inadequate welfare and poor working conditions remain major push factors for medical professionals. “Doctors deserve fair salaries, functional work environments, free health insurance, and proper accommodation. Addressing these issues will reduce strikes and help retain talented professionals within the state,” he explained. Dr. Amuda emphasized that if elected to the Oyo State House of Assembly in 2027, he plans to scale up health outreach programs, strengthen rural PHCs, and integrate his foundation’s initiatives with state health policies to ensure equitable access for all residents. “Governor Makinde has set the standard for functional healthcare. Our role is to extend it further to every ward, leaving no community behind,” he said. He concluded by lauding Governor Makinde’s performance, describing him as a “true achiever” in the health sector and giving him a 10/10 rating for his commitment to improving healthcare delivery and making quality services accessible to communities across Oyo State.

Oladapo Rolls Out Ambitious Plans as Oyo NUJ Election Gains Momentum

November 21, 2025 by admin

Ahead of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council election slated for December, one of the leading contenders for the chairmanship position, Comrade Olusola Oladapo “Summer”, has formally unveiled his agenda for the Union, promising a leadership focused on welfare, capacity-building, transparency and unity. The flag-off of his electioneering campaign, held on Thursday at the Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, drew members, stakeholders and senior figures in the state’s media community, all gathered to hear the candidate outline his vision for the Council. Oladapo, who currently serves as the Secretary of the Council, said his ambition “is driven by a desire to reposition the Union as a model of welfare, professionalism and ethical journalism.” The Director-General of his campaign, Dare Adekanmbi, described the moment as “a new dawn for journalists in Oyo State,” adding that if Oladapo is elected, members would begin to experience a union that truly protects their welfare, expands professional opportunities and restores dignity to the practice. Adekanmbi said the agenda being presented is rooted in transparency, inclusiveness and service, assuring journalists that “under Oladapo, NUJ Oyo will not only work for journalists but will stand by them in every moment that matters.” Speaking on his manifesto, Oladapo assured journalists that his administration, if elected, would prioritise dignity, protection and economic empowerment of every member, including establishing a Welfare and Emergency Fund to support colleagues during health challenges, bereavement or sudden hardship. According to him, journalists in the state deserved better structures of support, saying he plans to secure group health insurance, provide safety kits annually for field workers and create a legal aid and safety desk to protect members from harassment or unlawful arrest during the discharge of their duties. He also announced plans to introduce consistent training programmes to strengthen the professional capacity of journalists in the state, saying quarterly workshops on digital reporting, data journalism and investigative techniques would become standard under his leadership. Oladapo added that an NUJ Training and Resource Centre would be established at the Press Centre, equipped with internet access, research tools and digital facilities to support reporters, editors and young media practitioners across the state. The chairmanship hopeful further emphasised economic empowerment as a major part of his agenda, promising to support media entrepreneurship by facilitating grants and business development training for journalists interested in starting online platforms, podcasts or production outfits. He noted that partnerships would be pursued with financial institutions and cooperative societies to provide soft loans, support small businesses and establish a Media Investment Cooperative that would give members financial leverage and sustainability. On transparency, Oladapo stated that he would publish quarterly financial reports and implement an open-door policy that allows every member access to information on spending, projects and operations of the Union, saying NUJ Oyo must “become the most transparent Council in Nigeria.” He also pledged to build stronger unity among the various chapels within the state and ensure gender balance, inclusiveness for freelancers and improved engagement with retired journalists through an alumni forum dedicated to welfare and mentorship. Oladapo revealed plans to upgrade the Press Centre into a modern media hub, complete with a digital studio, ICT-equipped conference rooms and a co-working space capable of generating revenue for the Union, alongside a digital membership database and mobile app to improve efficiency. He said partnerships with government institutions, corporate bodies, NGOs and international media organisations would be strengthened to create more opportunities, training platforms and protections for journalists working in the state. Addressing rumours that he had spent too many years in NUJ leadership, Oladapo said service is not a crime, adding that those who are active in union activities are naturally the ones called upon to lead. “Leadership requires experience, not popularity,” he said, noting that he has served two terms as Chapel Secretary, two terms as State Ex-Officio, and later as Vice Chairman before becoming the current Council Secretary. He concluded by urging members to support his campaign and join in building a future where NUJ Oyo becomes a Union known for welfare, innovation and unwavering commitment to ethical journalism. Among the dignitaries that graced the occasion was the Chairman and Chief Executive of Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Mrs. Dotun Olaitan; the Zonal Director of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Dr. Moses Oyelade; leaders of the NUJ Oyo State Council including former Chairmen, Chief Gbemiga Ayoade and Mr. Adewumi Faniran, among others.

No Teacher Beaten To Death In Oyo – Govt, NUT Clears Air On Fake News

November 11, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – THE Oyo State Ministry of Education and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State chapter, have cleared the air on the alleged beating of a teacher to death in Ogbomoso by students, describing the viral news story as fake and a complete misrepresentation of facts. Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola; Oyo State NUT Chairman, Comrade Raji Oladimeji and the Principal of Soun High School, Ogbomoso, Mr Ajayi Adeyinka, who spoke separately on Monday, gave detailed accounts of the incident. The trio noted that the claim that the deceased teacher, Mr Adegoke Fatai Abiodun, was beaten to death by some students is false and unfounded, stating that the incident in which he caught four students gambling within school premises happened on May 28, 2025, while the teacher died on November 4, 2025. The Oyo State Government and the Education family in Oyo State commiserated with the family of the deceased, praying for the repose of his soul, while also warning members of the public to be wary of fake news. Olayiwola, while speaking after a stakeholders’ meeting of the education family in the state, held at the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology’s Conference Room, said the Ministry’s investigations from the school showed that the deceased was not beaten by the students. He said that though it was true that the late Mr Adegoke caught four students gambling in school, he was not beaten by the students, but that he dislocated an arm while trying to beat one of the culprits. He added that the teacher made efforts to treat the dislocated arm through local bone therapist and a private hospital, but it was later discovered that he had bone marrow cancer and that it was already at Stage 4. He warned reporters and residents of the state to be wary of fake news, stating that the public needs to exercise caution with regards to unverified information. He said: “We have gone into the roots of the matter and found out that the information is false. We asked the principal to report to the Ministry and he is sitting down here. “The fact of the matter is that the late Mr Adegoke Fatai had been sick. But the actual disease was not diagnosed until recently. The principal of the school told me that he used to go for medical attention since the time he got sick up until the time he died. “We were told that he was admitted into the hospital two weeks ago and that was where he was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer. “I also spoke with the wife of the deceased, who is incidentally a staff member of TESCOM, and she told me that it was not a matter of some students beating her husband. “What happened was that Mr Adegoke apprehended four students, who were gambling within the school premises. One of the boys was enrolled into the school by the deceased, as he was his friend’s son. Upon seeing someone so close to him among the culprits, we were told that Mr Adegoke lifted his hand to beat the boy, but that boy ducked and the late teacher’s hand landed on the boy’s elbow. This led to the hand swelling and the teacher was given medical attention immediately. “It was while he was treating the hand that it was discovered that the local approach and the attention from a private hospital were inadequate and he was referred to a government hospital, where he was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer, which had sadly, reached Stage 4. “It is sad that some people are using the sad incident of his death to fabricate lies and peddle rumours that don’t exist. “For you to know how far we went to investigate this incident, we called for the TESCOM chairperson, who is here with us. The Chairman of the NUT in Oyo State, Comrade Raji Oladimeji, is here seated. The Oyo ANCOPPS President is here seated. The Secretary-General of the NUT in Oyo State is here. “We also have the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, the Permanent Secretaries/Tutors-General and the Inspectors-General of Education from Ogbomoso and other people who have one thing or the other to do with education in Ogbomosoland are here. “As part of my investigations, I have even spoken with the Majority Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly, who is from Ogbomoso and he told me that he has been there and has seen the situation himself. I spoke with the LG Chairman of Ogbomoso North, and he told me that he was with the wife of the deceased this morning. “We shall be sending a powerful delegation to the wife tomorrow, which would be led by the TESCOM Chairman, to condole with her and the family of the deceased. I was even told that the boy who Mr Adegoke tried to reprimand, which led to his mishap, has been distraught since he passed away.” Speaking earlier, the Principal of Soun High School, Mr Adeyinka, said the incident was wrongly reported, saying that Mr Adegoke, a dedicated teacher, died after he had been down with bone marrow cancer, which was diagnosed late and not because he was beaten by students at the school. “The whole incident happened on May 28, 2025. But he was not beaten by the students. His attempt to beat one of the students made him dislocate an arm and he sought medical help. Along the line, I learnt that he visited a local bone therapist to mend the arm. On an occasion, I went to visit him, and I discovered that the local therapist could not take care of the bone. He was taken to a private hospital (names withheld). “It was at that hospital that it was discovered that his bones were weakened and the doctor called it brittle bones. I went to see him again at that hospital, but I discovered that his condition had not improved. I had … Read more

2025 World Clean-Up Day: Oyo, UNICEF Champion Sustainable Fashion to Reduce Textile Waste

November 2, 2025 by admin

The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has reaffirmed its commitment to making environmental protection a cornerstone of sustainable development in the state. This assurance was given by the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Barrister Seun Ashamu, during the commemoration of the 2025 World Clean-Up Day held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan. The event, themed “Tackling Textile and Fashion Waste through Circular Fashion,” was organized by the Ministry in collaboration with UNICEF. Barrister Ashamu described the global celebration as a reflection of humanity’s collective determination to build a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable planet. He emphasized the need to sensitize residents of Oyo State on reducing textile waste through reuse and recycling. He said “We can repurpose and reuse textiles in creative ways that reduce the volume of waste generated in our society “Everyone must treat the environment with the same care and respect we give to our bodies and homes. The government encourages residents to do the right thing and will not hesitate to sanction those who pollute the environment.” He noted that World Clean-Up Day, recognized annually on September 20 by the United Nations General Assembly, underscores the fact that environmental cleanliness and sustainability are shared global responsibilities. Highlighting the dangers of textile pollution, Ashamu pointed out that while the global fashion industry drives economic growth and creativity, it remains one of the world’s most polluting sectors. “The fashion industry contributes about 10 percent of global carbon emissions and nearly 20 percent of wastewater production. Every second, one truckload of textiles is either burned or dumped in landfills, releasing microplastics and toxic chemicals into our environment,” he lamented. Ashamu stressed that under the visionary leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, Oyo State has made significant progress in improving waste collection and disposal systems, strengthening public-private partnerships, and enforcing environmental sanitation laws. He added that the Ministry has intensified community engagement and environmental education to promote active citizen participation. In his goodwill message, Hon. Rahman Olorunpoto, Chairman, House Committee on Environment, Ecology, and Water Resources, commended the Ministry for its consistent efforts in promoting environmental health and sustainability. “A clean environment goes beyond what we see; it includes how well our surroundings support healthy living and sustainable development,” he said, pledging continued legislative support for environmental initiatives in the state. Also speaking, UNICEF WASH Specialist, Mr. Monday Johnson, linked textile waste to rising environmental pollution and urged responsible consumption. According to him, “Fast fashion contributes massively to waste. Many items are worn once and discarded. We must rethink our habits to protect our planet,” he advised, warning against the indiscriminate burning of textile waste, which releases harmful emissions. The event featured expert lectures, including Dr. Femi Balogun of the University of Ibadan (represented by Dr. Debra Adeyemo) who spoke on “Tackling Textile Waste through Circular Economy,” and Sanitarian Tijani A. Adegoke, President, Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria (Oyo State Chapter), who presented on “Zero Waste Practices: Leave No Waste Behind.” Key stakeholders from ministries, agencies, market associations, youth groups, NGOs, and waste management firms attended the event, pledging their commitment to a cleaner and greener Oyo State. In the same development, the Oyo State Government held a sweeping and sensitization exercise at Oja-Oba Market, Ibadan, aimed at promoting hygiene and environmental awareness. Speaking at the event, the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni (mni), represented by the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Mr. Olusola Ojelabi, said the exercise is designed to educate traders and residents on the importance of maintaining a clean environment. In his remarks, Permanent Secretary, for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr. Sunday Ojelabi, explained that the exercise is part of the broader campaign to instill hygiene consciousness in citizens. He noted that Oja-Oba was strategically chosen as both a commercial and cultural hub of Ibadan, urging market men and women to lead by example in maintaining cleanliness. Dr. Ojelabi revealed that Oyo State has improved its ranking on the Sub-National Climate Governance Index from 34th in 2024 to 7th in 2025, a feat he credited to Governor Makinde’s environmental reforms. Market leaders, including Alhaja Sikiratu Adebayo Tantoloun (Iyaloja, Bodija Market), Alhaja Ramota (Iyaloja, Eleyele Market), and Prince Akanni Ojo, representative of the Babaloja-General, commended the government’s initiatives and urged traders to embrace recycling opportunities. “Waste has become wealth globally,” they noted, “and Oyo traders must key into this new economy.”

Oyo Govt Gives Ultimatum To Roadside Traders, Container Owners On Airport Road, Onipepeye

October 14, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – The Oyo State Government has directed roadside traders and those selling in containers along Airport Road, Old Ife Road and Onipepeye areas of Ibadan to relocate their trades. The government gave the traders two weeks to put an end to roadside trading on the axis. The ultimatum expires on Monday, October 27, 2025. The government said having built markets and other closed environments in various parts of the city, it could no longer tolerate trading on roadside or placement of container shops on drainages. It noted that roadside traders are exposed to serious dangers and avoidable environmental hazards, adding that as a responsible government, it has a duty to protect the citizens from all manner of danger. The government also added that trading on walkways could lead to damaging public infrastructure, blocking drainage system and putting the state at the risk of flooding. It said that roadside trading would deprive the state of benefits of its investment in the promotion of tourism, stating that such sights turn off tourists. The government urged all affected people to comply with the directive, stressing that failure to do so would result in the enforcement of extant rules in the state which might lead to not just the confiscation of wares but also the prosecution of offenders. The government called for the cooperation of all and sundry to achieve sustainable development in the state.