Oyo State Government Urges Youths to Embrace Recycling for a Sustainable Future
IBADAN/Nigeria: In a bid to cultivate a more responsible and environmentally conscious citizenry, the Oyo State Government has made a fervent appeal to the youths in the state, encouraging them to actively participate in the recycling of plastics and waste materials.
This call to action was expressed by Mrs. Modupe Adeleye, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, during her appearance on the bi-weekly program “Head of Service Speaks” on the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism’s online radio platform, Aloore, on Thursday.
Mrs. Adeleye highlighted the significance of schools engaging their students in the state government’s Waste to Wealth initiative, emphasizing the need to educate children about the advantages of plastic recycling.
She further elaborated that the Oyo State Government has given its seal of approval to Waste Management Consultant, Mottainai Recycling Ltd., which has adopted a comprehensive approach to waste reduction, sustainability promotion, and the creation of thriving communities.
The Permanent Secretary passionately urged residents of the state to seize the inherent benefits associated with waste recycling. She underscored the fact that households generate substantial amounts of industrial waste through the use of plastics, paper, and nylons, and if effectively harnessed, these materials can be transformed into valuable resources.
Since 2021, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has been collaborating with relevant organizations in a pilot programme aimed at implementing effective waste separation and preservation methods.
Mrs. Adeleye further disclosed that the ministry recently extended its awareness campaign to several major markets in the state, particularly focusing on the new Gbagi Market in Ibadan, where Mottainai Recycling Ltd. engaged with traders.
Emphasizing the potential wealth that can be derived from waste, the Permanent Secretary urged the youths and the entire populace to consult the Ministry on how to best harness this opportunity.
She emphasized that waste should be seen as a valuable resource that, if properly managed, can contribute significantly to the economic prosperity of individuals and communities.
In a separate context, Mrs. Adeleye also commented on the recent ban on street trading imposed by the state government, characterizing it as a life-saving measure for both traders and pedestrians. She reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of the people of Oyo, urging marketers to comply with the directive by maintaining their shops and businesses in designated areas.
The Oyo State Government’s proactive approach to sustainability and waste management aims to inspire a culture of responsible citizenship and environmental stewardship among its youth, as well as the general population.
By promoting recycling and ensuring compliance with trading regulations, the government seeks to create a cleaner and safer environment for all residents while unlocking the economic potential of waste materials.
