A call to action has been made by the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko – Ajisafe as Ekiti State joined other states of the federation in commemorating the National Environmental Sanitation Day with theme: GO GREEN, STAY CLEAN, CLIMATE CHANGE IS REAL.
While urging Ekiti residents to maintain a high level of hygiene to prevent the outbreak of cholera, a disease currently affecting neighboring states, the Commissioner who spoke through
the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Babatunde Alokan, emphasized the collective responsibility of every community in maintaining cleanliness.
“Every hand must be on deck to prevent the outbreak of cholera in our state. We must all take responsibility for our environment and ensure that we maintain a high level of hygiene. This is crucial for the health and wellbeing of our community”. She stated.
Stressing that residents of Ekiti State should be encouraged to actively participate in keeping their surroundings clean.
In his own remark, the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, commended the State Governor Biodun Oyebanji for prioritizing environmental health and sanitation in his administration’s policies.
Rt. Hon. Olatunbosun praised the people of Ekiti State for complying with environmental principles and laws. He also encouraged them to appreciate the governor for providing the necessary logistics for waste management, such as the strategically placed Dino bins.
Other dignitaries who also delivered their goodwill messages included the Technical Advisor to the governor on Green Economy and Ecological Matters, Dr Akinyemi Akinyugha, Director General Ekiti waste management Authority, Mr Olasukanmi Onipede Local Council Development Area Chairman, Ado Central, Hon.Toyin Ojo and the Vice Chairman of Ado North Hon. Kolade Ogunsakin among others
The celebration included a road walk and sensitization programmes aimed at raising awareness about proper sanitation practices. Health officials provided valuable information on waste management, the importance of clean water, and ways to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
The National Environmental Sanitation Day, introduced in 2005 by President Olusegun Obasanjo, this year’s theme highlights the ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and the importance of addressing climate change.