Oyo Marks World Earth Day 2026 with Tree Planting, Clean Environment Drive

The Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has commemorated World Earth Day 2026 with a series of initiatives aimed at promoting a cleaner, greener, and healthier environment across the state.

Speaking at a press conference, the Commissioner for Environment, Ademola Aderinto, pointed at the significance of this year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” stressing that environmental protection is a shared responsibility that requires collective action from government, communities, and individuals.

As part of the celebration, the Ministry, in partnership with For Nature and Future Eco-Green Initiatives, carried out a symbolic tree planting exercise, with 100 trees planted to promote climate action and sustainability. The Commissioner described tree planting as a vital step toward improving air quality, reducing carbon emissions, preventing soil erosion, and preserving biodiversity.

He called on residents, corporate organisations, and private sector stakeholders to collaborate with the government in expanding tree planting efforts across the state, noting that sustained partnerships are key to achieving long-term environmental goals.

The activities also include a public awareness campaign tagged “Walk for the Planet,” scheduled to run from April 22 to April 25, designed to mobilise grassroots participation and deepen environmental consciousness among residents.

Highlighting ongoing interventions, Aderinto pointed to strengthened environmental sanitation enforcement, increased inspections of markets, eateries, hotels, and industries, as well as the rollout of a decentralised waste management system across all local government areas.

He urged residents to adopt responsible waste disposal habits, reduce reliance on single-use plastics, and actively participate in sustainability programmes, adding that collective action remains essential in safeguarding the environment for future generations.

Separately, the Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, noted that climate change continues to impact public health through rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and changing disease trends, with some illnesses now appearing outside their usual seasonal cycles.

She harped on the need for sustained environmental awareness, particularly in areas such as afforestation, deforestation prevention, and proper waste management.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency, Sola Akande, announced plans to enrol street sweepers in the state’s health insurance scheme to ensure access to quality healthcare, describing the move as a step toward protecting those who contribute directly to environmental sanitation.

Earlier, the Executive Director of For Nature and Future Eco-Green Initiatives, Elijah Adejimi, called for renewed commitment to environmental stewardship, urging stakeholders to sustain efforts toward building a greener and more sustainable future.

The event drew participation from representatives of government agencies, security organisations, and development partners, reflecting a broad-based commitment to environmental sustainability in Oyo State.