Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has tasked the new Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Pastor Ademola Aderinto, to urgently address ongoing environmental challenges facing the state.
Makinde gave the charge on Friday shortly after administering the oath of office to Aderinto, whom he deliberately redeployed to the environment ministry in response to what he described as unmet goals and persistent setbacks in the sector.
Makinde acknowledged that while some progress had been made over the years, many targets remain unmet, prompting the redeployment of Aderinto to the ministry.
The governor emphasised the need for strong leadership and a renewed approach to issues such as climate action, environmental degradation, sanitation, and indiscriminate waste disposal.
He expressed confidence in Aderinto’s ability, noting his previous experience as Special Assistant on Environment and Natural Resources.
Speaking to journalists, Aderinto explained that his strategy would go beyond visible waste management concerns, highlighting efforts in climate action and environmental protection that have been ongoing “behind the scenes.”
He described his appointment as a strategic opportunity to leave a lasting environmental legacy for the Makinde administration.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by top state officials, including the Deputy Governor, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Chief Judge, SSG, Chief of Staff, and other commissioners and permanent secretaries.
