Ekiti State has intensified efforts to combat climate change through collaborative partnerships with NGOs, businesses, and citizens.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration recently reinforced this commitment during the “Ja Climate Walk” in Ado Ekiti, organized by Sustainable Business Initiative for Climate Solutions and youth advocates.
The event emphasized collective action to address environmental threats.
Speaking through Director Akinola Babatunde, Environment Commissioner Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe highlighted climate impacts disrupting agriculture via erratic rainfall, flooding, and erosion.
She stressed proactive measures, including tree-planting campaigns, emission monitoring, and bans on bush burning.
Furthermore, the state adopted climate-smart farming and waste management strategies to reduce landfill dependence.
“We prioritize recycling paper, plastic, and metals while promoting composting,” Aluko-Ajisafe explained.
These efforts earned Ekiti fourth place in Nigeria’s Climate Governance Performance Report.
The commissioner praised the governor’s alignment with national and global sustainability targets, ensuring progress toward 2030 climate goals.
Meanwhile, lawmakers pledged legislative support for environmental initiatives.
House of Assembly member Iyabode Fakunle-Okieimen affirmed the 7th Assembly’s focus on ecological balance under Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye.
“We aim to safeguard resources for future generations,” she said, urging youth groups to propose policies for legislative backing.
Youth engagement emerged as a central theme.
“Ja Climate Walk” convener Ojuoluwa Oluwatobiloba urged Nigerians to abandon harmful practices like deforestation and unregulated drilling.
Similarly, SBI Climate Solutions director Adebisi Adeyemi announced plans to train youths in upcycling and waste management through partnerships with state agencies.
“Our goal is to empower youths economically while advancing sustainability,” Adeyemi stated.
Over 200 participants marched from Oke-Iyinmi to Fajuyi Motor Park, distributing flyers on waste reduction.
Their placards underscored the urgency of adopting eco-friendly habits.
Ekiti’s multipronged approach—combining policy, technology, and community mobilization—demonstrates its resolve to mitigate climate risks.
By fostering innovation and inclusivity, the state aims to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship, setting a benchmark for sustainable development in Nigeria.
Through these initiatives, Ekiti continues to champion resilience, proving that local action can drive meaningful progress in the global crisis.
Stakeholders remain optimistic that sustained collaboration will secure a greener future for generations to come.