By Abdulllahi Lukman
The Oyo State Government has introduced a daily environmental sanitation exercise aimed at improving cleanliness across the state.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, announced the development during a press conference in Ibadan on Tuesday to mark his first 100 days in office.
Aderinto said the government had moved away from the traditional monthly sanitation exercise to a system that promotes daily environmental responsibility among residents.
He explained that environmental health officers would monitor and enforce compliance across the state.
According to him, the ministry has re-engaged 930 environmental vanguards, sweepers and waste packers to strengthen sanitation operations.
He added that two new compactor trucks were also procured with the support of Governor Seyi Makinde to improve waste evacuation.
The commissioner noted that the environmental personnel were strategically deployed to enhance enforcement and sanitation coverage, while road sweepers would now work twice daily to keep roads cleaner.
He further disclosed that the sweepers would benefit from the Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme.
Aderinto also announced the launch of the “Oyo Soro Soke (Oyo SSS)” environmental whistleblower platform, accessible through mobile applications and WhatsApp, to enable residents report environmental violations and encourage community participation.
He added that the ministry had introduced a waste segregation system in government offices and initiated public-private partnerships for the construction of modern public toilets.
The commissioner expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde for the opportunity to serve and assured residents of his commitment to improving environmental standards in the state.
He also commended members of the Executive Council and the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Sunday Ojelabi, for their support and cooperation.