By DAYO ADESULU
The Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ola Oresanya, has announced the formation of a dedicated agency focused on sanitation and infrastructure maintenance. This initiative comes as part of proactive measures in response to the recent flash flood warnings issued for 16 states, including Ogun State, by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
In an exclusive interview during the current affairs program on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese-Ijebu, Oresanya emphasized the state government’s preparedness and outlined steps being taken to mitigate the anticipated impact of flash floods. “We’ve begun preparations with a task force and established policies and laws. The next step is to formalize a structure that will guide operations and ensure compliance,” he stated.
The proposed agency will play a key role in addressing environmental hazards caused by public actions. Oresanya detailed plans to fund the initiative, which includes acquiring vehicles and expanding the workforce dedicated to environmental sanitation and infrastructure upkeep.
The commissioner highlighted various areas within Ogun State that are prone to flooding, including Alamutu in Abeokuta, Shokori River Area, Ifo Local Government Area, and more. He noted that the government has already commenced construction efforts to combat flooding and has prioritized erosion control in regions like Ijebu-Ode, where significant soil instability issues persist.
Oresanya acknowledged the complex nature of funding for environmental projects, explaining that while the state contributes to the national budget, national agencies oversee project execution. He stressed the importance of creativity in overcoming challenges, stating, “I define what is doable and I set out to do it, regardless of funding constraints.”
Addressing related infrastructure issues, Oresanya highlighted the need for effective waste management. He pointed out that waste containers not only facilitate garbage collection but also serve as indicators of community health and safety. Residents have a legal right to take action if waste is improperly handled, which underscores the need for personal responsibility in waste management.
Regarding the issue of plastic waste, Oresanya clarified that Ogun State will not adopt a plastic ban like Lagos. Instead, he emphasized that both plastic and paper should not contribute to street litter. The government is also exploring solutions to convert waste into fuel, providing job opportunities in the waste management sector.
In emphasizing the importance of land elevation in flood risk management, Oresanya urged property buyers to consider their land’s proximity to canals. He also addressed illegal road excavations and encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities to authorities.
Oresanya capped the discussion by reaffirming the state’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws via the newly established agency. He encouraged public engagement by reporting incidents of environmental violations through WhatsApp at +234-901-048-0056, and urged citizens to document instances of environmental degradation within their communities.
This proactive approach from the Ogun State government reflects a robust commitment to safeguarding the environment and preparing for the challenges posed by natural disasters like flash floods. Stay informed about ongoing initiatives and how you can contribute to a cleaner, safer Ogun State.
