The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, has partnered with the Rotary Club of Ibadan Jericho Metro to carry out a street sweeping exercise and distribute food packages to sanitation workers in recognition of their dedication to keeping the environment clean.
Speaking at the event held at the Ministry’s premises, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, described the initiative as part of a broader collaboration between government and stakeholders to encourage those contributing to environmental cleanliness.
He clarified that the Ministry partnered with the Rotary Club, which organised the outreach as part of its community service programme, noting that the gesture was designed to motivate sanitation workers who play a vital role in maintaining a healthy and safe environment.
The Commissioner commended the Rotary Club for supporting government efforts and for recognising the commitment of sanitation workers through the donation of food packages by the George Aid Foundation.
He reiterated that the government, through the Ministry and the Oyo State Solid Waste Management Authority, remains committed to eliminating refuse heaps and ensuring a cleaner city, adding that substantial resources are being deployed for waste evacuation and environmental sanitation across the state.
Hon. Aderinto appealed to residents, particularly traders and market operators, to cooperate with the government by engaging approved waste collectors and avoiding indiscriminate dumping of refuse on road medians and open spaces. He noted that improper waste disposal increases the financial burden on government and diverts resources meant for infrastructure, healthcare, education and security.
He also encouraged clubs, corporate organisations and non-governmental bodies to emulate the Rotary Club by partnering with the government on sanitation initiatives, stressing that such collaborations are crucial to sustaining a clean and healthy environment.
Aderinto urged residents to support government waste management policies and report environmental violations through official feedback platforms, emphasising that collective responsibility remains key to achieving a cleaner and more livable state. He assured that public awareness campaigns would be intensified until environmental cleanliness becomes a culture among residents.
Speaking on the essence of the programme, the President of Rotary Club of Ibadan Jericho Metro, Rot. Bimbola Bodede, stated that a clean and green environment should be the hallmark of all.
The exercise featured active participation from ministry officials, members of the Rotary Club and sanitation workers, all working together to promote a cleaner and healthier environment.
The food items distributed during the exercise were donated by the George Aid Foundation.