Students from Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun Engage Osun State Director General and Special Envoy on Climate Change to Forge Partnerships for Environmental Sustainability and Green Innovation
A delegation from the National Association of Environmental Health Science Students Nigeria (NAEHSSN) – FUHSI Chapter, led by President Akindele Teminijesu, paid a courtesy visit to Professor Chinwe Obuaku-Igwe, Director-General and Special Envoy to the Governor of Osun State on Climate Change and Renewable Energy.
The meeting strengthened collaborative ties between student environmental advocates and state-level climate governance, focusing on advocacy, policy development, and practical initiatives to address climate challenges in Osun State.
The discussions centered on climate change advocacy — particularly air quality improvement and broader mitigation strategies — while emphasizing youth and educational institutions’ roles in driving awareness and action.
Key highlights included innovative green approaches, such as proposals for a Junior Parliament/Council on Climate Change dedicated to circular economy principles, renewable energy promotion, and the establishment of a dedicated training facility in Osun State to build youth capacity.
Professor Chinwe Obuaku-Igwe announced a landmark tree-planting initiative at the FUHSI Campus, involving the planting of canopy trees to create shaded recreational spaces and promote rotational planting for sustained campus greening.
Sensitization projects were also proposed, linking climate impacts to economic development, public health, wellness, and the emerging issue of environmental refugees (climate-induced displacement).
Additional project concepts discussed include:
• Advocacy to eliminate open defecation through eco-friendly public toilets constructed using recycled PET bottles.
• Campaigns against deforestation, incorporating PET bottle reuse in reforestation and awareness efforts.
• Alignment of economic growth with sustainable practices, integrating health and wellness support for climate-displaced communities.
The visit established a solid foundation for ongoing partnerships between NAEHSSN–FUHSI Chapter and the Office of the Special Envoy.
Agreed actions encompass joint project development, student participation in policy advocacy and green innovation hubs, and follow-up meetings to advance the training facility, tree-planting program, and related initiatives.
President Akindele Teminijesu remarked: “This engagement marks a significant milestone in youth-government collaboration. By partnering with the Special Envoy’s office, we are committed to translating advocacy into tangible projects that promote environmental health, sustainability, and resilience across Osun State.”
The NAEHSSN–FUHSI Chapter invites stakeholders, communities, and partners to support these efforts toward a greener, healthier future for Osun State.
