Osun State Makes Giant Leap in National Climate Governance Ranking, Climbs from 30th to 6th
Osun State has recorded a major milestone in environmental governance, rising from 30th position in 2024 to 6th place in the 2025 Subnational Climate Governance Performance Ranking.
The state now ranks as the second-best performer in the South-West region, behind only Lagos State.
The ranking, compiled by the Federal Government of Nigeria in partnership with the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), evaluates how states are implementing climate policies, building institutional capacity, and driving local climate action.
It is a key accountability tool promoting innovation and sustainability across the country.
Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke praised the achievement as a clear indication of Osun State’s renewed commitment to environmental sustainability.
“This leap is the result of deliberate policies and strategic investments by our administration. Climate action is not just a policy priority — it is a development imperative,” he said.
Osun State scored a total of 265 points in the 2025 assessment, reflecting notable progress in areas such as budget allocation, institutional reforms, project implementation, and public engagement.
Among the climate-focused initiatives credited for this success are:
* Creation of a dedicated Department of Climate Change and Renewable Energy within the Ministry of Environment and Sanitation;
* Increased funding for climate-related programs;
* Implementation of climate adaptation and mitigation projects at the grassroots level;
* Integration of environmental education into school curricula;
* Ongoing training for climate officers across the state;
* Strengthened collaboration with federal and international agencies.
The state also earned high marks for its online visibility and transparency in climate governance — an indication of growing public engagement and openness in environmental policy.
The award was formally presented during a ceremony at Bon Hotel Octagon, Abuja, attended by key stakeholders including the Honourable Minister of Environment and the Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC).
Representing the state at the event were the Commissioner for Environment and Sanitation and the Director of Climate Change and Renewable Energy.
They dedicated the award to the people of Osun and to Governor Adeleke for his leadership in mainstreaming sustainability into governance.
Special recognition was given to Professor Chinwe Obuaku-Igwe, the Governor’s Special Envoy and Director-General on Climate Change and Renewable Energy.
Her leadership and coordination have been pivotal in propelling Osun to national prominence in climate governance.
In a statement, the state government reaffirmed its commitment to deepening efforts in renewable energy, circular economy initiatives, and sustainable development, promising a “greener, cleaner, and more resilient Osun” for generations to come.
