*World Environment Day: Ekiti Advocates Indigenous Languages for Climate Change Awareness* The Ekiti State Government on Friday joined the global community to commemorate the 2026 World Environment Day, with stakeholders advocating the use of indigenous languages to deepen climate change awareness and environmental protection efforts. Speaking at the event in Ado-Ekiti, the State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Ajisafe-Aluko, described climate change as one of the greatest environmental challenges confronting communities across the world. Ajisafe-Aluko urged residents to adopt environmentally friendly practices to safeguard the environment and ensure a sustainable future for coming generations. She said the administration of Gov. Biodun Oyebanji remained committed to building a clean, safe, healthy and sustainable environment through strategic policies, partnerships and community-driven initiatives. “Climate action is urgent and necessary. We must all play our part in protecting the environment through responsible actions and sustainable practices,” she said. Delivering a keynote address, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Prof. Wole Adebayo, stressed the importance of indigenous communication channels in climate change advocacy. Adebayo said environmental messages would achieve greater impact if communicated in local languages that grassroots communities could easily understand and relate with. According to him, translating climate-related information into indigenous dialects will enhance public participation in environmental protection and strengthen efforts to combat environmental degradation. The professor noted that effective communication remained a critical tool in addressing climate change and other environmental challenges. The event featured goodwill messages from the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi;the State Commissioner for Information,Rt Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun; Chairman, Ekiti State House of Assembly Committee on Environment, Mrs Iyabo Fakunle-Okeimie; representatives of non-governmental organisations; development partners; and officials of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA). The speakers commended the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources for its environmental sustainability initiatives and called for sustained collaboration among government agencies, development partners and citizens to address environmental challenges. A major highlight of the event was the inspection of a guard of honour, cultural performances and a stage play presented by ministry officials. The drama showcased the causes and effects of climate change and educated participants on practical solutions such as tree planting, proper waste management, environmental sanitation and the reduction of activities that contribute to global warming. Earlier, participants embarked on a road walk through major streets of Ado-Ekiti from Oja Oba to create public awareness on environmental protection and climate action. The cultural presentation attracted applause from participants, who described it as an effective medium for communicating environmental messages, particularly at the grassroots level. The event ended with stakeholders renewing their commitment to strengthening environmental awareness and encouraging citizens to actively participate in protecting the environment for present and future generations.

May this new month bring renewed hope, good health, peace, and greater opportunities to every home. As we also celebrate Nigeria’s Independence, let us continue to uphold unity, responsible citizenship, and a shared commitment to a cleaner, safer and more sustainable Ekiti State. May October bring progress, prosperity and abundant blessings to us all. Happy New Month and Happy Independence Anniversary!

**EKITI GOVT CLEARS BLOCKED CULVERT AROUND AYEMI GARAGE AFTER FLOODING** The Ekiti State Government has begun clearing a blocked culvert at Ayemi Garage, Ado-Ekiti, after a heavy downpour caused water to overflow the channel and left traffic gridlocked for hours. The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, visited the area to assess the situation and ordered the immediate removal of the blockage. An excavator was deployed to clear debris and attendant accumulated silt so that water could flow freely through the channel. Aluko-Ajisafe said the action was part of the government's efforts to address the situation in flood-prone areas, particularly in view of recent weather and flood-risk warnings. She urged residents to stop dumping refuse in drains, culverts and waterways, warning that blocked channels cause water to overflow and disrupt movement. She also advised motorists and residents to exercise caution during heavy rainfall, avoid flooded roads and refrain from attempting to cross floodwater. The Commissioner appealed to residents to cooperate with the government by keeping drainage channels clear and reporting blocked waterways promptly.

Happy New Month! As we step into this new season, I declare fresh opportunities, divine health, and overflowing prosperity over every one of us.

Obnoxious Odour: Ekiti Govt Warns Residents Against Improper Waste Disposal The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, has warned residents of Ekiti State against activities that could endanger public health or constitute environment nuisance. The Commissioner gave the warning following a complaint from residents of Third Extension, GRA, Ado-Ekiti, over an offensive odour allegedly caused by the discharge of wastewater into a drainage channel around 11:00 p.m. by a resident of the estate. A Joint Task Force from the Ministry and security agencies visited the area following the complaint and discovered that accumulated kitchen waste catch pit was evacuated into the public drain, which was responsible for the offensive odour . Erelu Aluko-Ajisafe condemned this practice, stating that the government would not tolerate practices that constitute odour nuisance and health risk to the populace. An abatement notice has been issued to the resident, and further action would be taken in accordance with relevant environmental laws as deterent to others. The Commissioner applauded the prompt complaint by the residents of the estate and appealed to the populace to provide useful information to the ministry as the efforts to resolve the ongoing recurrent obnoxious odour in the state continues. She emphasized that a number of arrests and prosecutions have been made as part of the Ministry's efforts to address the recurrent odour nuisance, with this present case being the latest. She stated that the efforts would be sustained to ensure a clean and safe environment in the state.

EKITI TO OBSERVE AUGUST ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION EXERCISE The Ekiti State Government has announced that the monthly environmental sanitation exercise for August will hold on Saturday, August 29, from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. across all Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the State. The theme for this month’s exercise is “Clean Environment, Healthy Air: Say No to Obnoxious Odour.” The theme is aimed at drawing attention to the need for proper waste disposal and good environmental practices to prevent offensive odours and protect public health. The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, urged residents to take part in the exercise and ensure that their surroundings, drains and waste disposal areas are properly cleaned. She said, “Residents should take environmental sanitation seriously. We have received complaints about obnoxious odour in some areas, and everyone has a role to play in keeping the environment clean and free from conditions that can affect public health.” She reminded residents that movement would be restricted during the three-hour exercise, except for people on essential duties. Market women are expected to clean their shops and surroundings on Thursday, while government workers are to clean their offices on Friday, ahead of the main exercise on Saturday. Environmental Health Officers from the Ministry, LGAs, LCDAs, NGOs and security agencies will monitor the exercise and ensure compliance. The Commissioner urged residents to dispose of refuse and wastewater properly and report activities that may cause environmental pollution or obnoxious odour to the appropriate authorities.

MESSAGE TO THE PEOPLE OF EKITI STATE ON THE REPORTED INCIDENT OF OBNOXIOUS ODOUR The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources wishes to reassure residents of the State that the Government is fully aware of the concerns surrounding the obnoxious odour recently perceived in some parts of the State and is taking the matter very seriously. It is important to state that the Ministry has not just commenced action on this matter. For several months, we have been working tirelessly to identify and address possible sources of offensive odours and other environmental nuisances across the State. Following reports received from residents, the Ministry intensified its investigations and surveillance across affected locations. Our environmental officers have been deployed across communities and are carrying out house-to-house inspections, surveillance and investigations in areas where the odour has been reported. As part of these efforts, the Ministry has engaged relevant stakeholders and experts, while its joint task force has continued inspections of suspected locations. Several premises found to be engaging in activities capable of generating offensive odours and constituting environmental nuisances have been sealed. Some individuals have also been arrested and appropriate enforcement actions taken. Among the activities uncovered during our inspections are practices such as the rearing of maggots and the use of animal blood and other decomposing materials as feed for fish. These and other environmentally harmful practices are being investigated and dealt with in accordance with the relevant environmental laws and regulations of the State. The Ministry has also conducted air-quality and gas analysis as part of the ongoing investigation. This scientific exercise is intended to provide reliable data that will assist us in understanding the nature of the odour and tracing its possible source. We want the people of Ekiti State to understand that we are not backing down. We have sealed premises months ago, and we are still sealing premises where necessary. Our officers remain on the field, carrying out inspections, monitoring activities and following up on reports from members of the public. At this time, the exact source of the reported odour has not yet been conclusively established. However, the fact that we have not yet identified one definite source does not mean that the Government is sitting back. We are working tirelessly, and we are determined to get to the root of this matter. We therefore urge residents to remain calm and avoid unnecessary speculation or the spread of unverified information. We assure the people of Ekiti State that the Government is committed to protecting their health, safety and wellbeing, and every necessary step is being taken to resolve this matter. Residents are also encouraged to assist the investigation by promptly reporting whenever the odour is perceived. Such reports should include the location, time and nature of the odour and can be made to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources through 08145571085, or by visiting the Ministry to provide relevant information. We sincerely appreciate the patience, cooperation and understanding of the good people of Ekiti State. We understand the concerns of our people, and we share those concerns. We will continue to work, investigate, enforce and follow every available lead until we get to the root of the matter. We shall not relent. We shall continue to pursue every possible source, and we remain confident that with sustained investigation, scientific analysis and the cooperation of our people, we will get to the root of this matter. The Ministry remains committed to ensuring a clean, safe and healthy environment for all residents of Ekiti State. Hon. Commissioner Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources Ekiti State

The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources extends its warm greetings to all residents of Ado-Ekiti and the entire state as we enter the month of August. We wish you a month marked by peace, progress, and a renewed commitment to sustaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment. We respectfully encourage all residents to continue supporting environmental sanitation efforts by ensuring proper waste disposal and refraining from dumping refuse into drainages and canals. Your cooperation remains essential in mitigating the risk of flooding, particularly during the rainy season, and in promoting safer, cleaner, and more aesthetically pleasing communities across the state. We wish you a peaceful and productive new month.

Environmental Task Force Arrests Woman for Illegal Waste Disposal into Canal in Ado-Ekiti The Environmental Sanitation Task Force of the Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has arrested and arraigned a woman, Mrs. Ruth Ayeni, for unlawfully disposing refuse into a canal in the Moferere area of Ado-Ekiti. Mrs. Ayeni was apprehended in the early hours of Wednesday during an enforcement operation carried out by officers of the Task Force. The operation is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and prevent environmental practices that could worsen flooding, particularly during the rainy season. She was subsequently arraigned before a competent court, where she pleaded guilty to the charge. The court sentenced her to three months’ imprisonment with an option of a ₦5,000 fine, in accordance with the Ekiti State Environmental Health and Sanitation (Re-enacted) Law No. 21 of 2020. Environmental Health officers, while addressing residents of Moferere and surrounding communities, cautioned them against dumping refuse into drainages and canals. They noted that indiscriminate waste disposal into waterways obstructs the free flow of water and may result in flooding, environmental pollution, and other public health risks, particularly during the rainy season. Residents were urged to make proper use of government-provided Dino bins positioned at strategic locations across the state capital for the disposal of household waste. The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources further called on residents to support government efforts to maintain a clean and safe environment in Ado-Ekiti by avoiding indiscriminate waste disposal and ensuring proper use of designated waste collection points.

Environmental Task Force Cracks Down on Illegal Waste Disposal in Ado-Ekiti The Environmental Sanitation Task Force of the Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has arrested two people for allegedly dumping refuse into a canal in the Moferere area of Ado-Ekiti. The suspects were caught during an early morning enforcement operation. The exercise is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to stop indiscriminate waste disposal and reduce environmental practices that could worsen flooding, especially during the rainy season. Officials said the aim is to protect public infrastructure and keep the environment safe. The arrested individuals were identified as Mr Emmanuel Olugboja and Mrs Modupe Adekola. They were said to have been caught dumping waste into the canal before they were taken into custody by the task force. The Ministry said the enforcement is meant to discourage residents from using roadsides, drainage channels, canals, and other unauthorised places as dumping sites, warning that such actions can cause serious health and environmental problems. It also said the arrests should serve as a warning to others, especially with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency predicting heavy rainfall in Ekiti State, which could lead to flooding if waterways are blocked. Residents were advised to dispose of waste properly and keep their surroundings clean, as the government continues to encourage everyone to work together for a healthier and safer environment in the state.

The Department of Parks and Gardens, Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, has commenced the clearing of overgrown weeds along the Adebayo Road median as part of ongoing efforts to enhance environmental aesthetics, promote greenery, and maintain a clean and orderly urban environment across the state.

EKITI GOVERNMENT WARNS AGAINST DRYING PROCESSED CASSAVA ON HIGHWAYS The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has cautioned residents of Aba Igbogun community in Ado-Ekiti against spreading processed cassava along roadsides and highways for drying. The warning was issued during a sensitization and health education visit to the community by a team of Environmental Health Officers from the ministry, led by the State Director of Environmental Health and Sanitation, Mr. Ayodele Aluko. The team visited Aba Igbogun, a settlement along the newly constructed Ring Road leading to the Ekiti State Cargo Airport, to educate residents on the health, environmental and safety risks associated with the practice, which has become common in the area. Speaking during the visit, Mr. Aluko said drying cassava along the expressway exposes it to dust, vehicle emissions and other contaminants, making it unsafe for consumption and increasing the risk of disease. He added that the practice also poses a danger to motorists and residents, as it could lead to accidents on the busy highway. According to him, it also creates environmental nuisance and detracts from the aesthetic appeal of the area. The director urged residents to discontinue the practice immediately, warning that the government would not tolerate actions that endanger public health and safety. He also called on the community to comply with environmental health regulations. Responding on behalf of the community, a representative of the village head thanked the ministry for the visit and promised to relay the message to other residents who were not present at the sensitization exercise. The ministry said it remains committed to promoting healthy environmental practices and safeguarding public health across communities in Ekiti State.

EKITI RESIDENTS URGED TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FLOODING The Ekiti State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, has called on residents to take preventive measures against flooding following the prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) that heavy rainfall is expected in many parts of the country. The Commissioner advised residents to clear drains and gutters around their homes and business premises, desist from dumping refuse in drainage channels and waterways, and ensure that water flows freely during rainfall. She also urged those living in flood-prone communities to remain alert throughout the rainy season, pay attention to weather forecasts, and comply with safety advisories issued by government agencies. Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe reaffirmed the commitment of the Ekiti State Government to protecting lives and property through continuous environmental sanitation, drainage maintenance, and other flood control measures. She appealed to residents to support government efforts by keeping their surroundings clean, stressing that preventing flooding is a responsibility that requires the cooperation of everyone. "A clean environment is our first defence against flooding. Together, let us keep Ekiti safe by keeping our drains free of refuse and our surroundings clean," the Commissioner stated.

The Environmental Health and Sanitation Department of the Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources carried out routine inspections in Bashir Area, Ado-Ekiti, covering schools, frozen food stores, a poki processing factory and business premises. Health education was provided on personal hygiene, food hygiene and environmental sanitation, while residents were sensitized on the dangers of open burning and indiscriminate waste disposal into drainage channels. #CleanEkiti #EnvironmentalHealth #EnvironmentalSanitation #PublicHealth

. EKITI ENVIRONMENT MINISTRY TAKES WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN TO MARKETS As part of activities lined up for the 2026 World Environment Day celebration, the Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has commenced a sensitisation and awareness campaign across major markets in Ado-Ekiti. The campaign is aimed at educating traders, buyers and members of the public on this year's theme, "Inspired by Nature: For Climate, For Our Future." Environmental health and sanitation officers of the ministry enlightened residents on the importance of proper waste disposal, environmental sanitation, tree planting and other environmentally friendly practices that support climate action and sustainable development. To ensure wider reach and understanding, the sensitisation was conducted in English, Yoruba,Igbo and Hausa languages. A play was staged during the sensitisation campaign to educate the public on the causes of climate change and practical solutions for protecting the environment In a message ahead of World Environment Day, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, called on residents to embrace responsible environmental practices and support government efforts aimed at protecting the environment. She noted that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility, stressing that collective action is necessary to safeguard natural resources and secure a better future for generations yet unborn. The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Biodun Oyebanji administration to promoting a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable environment across the state. The awareness campaign is one of several activities being organised by the Ministry in preparation for the 2026 World Environment Day celebration.

Happy New Month

EKITI TO OBSERVE MAY ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION EXERCISE WITHOUT RESTRICTION OF MOVEMENT As part of efforts to promote a cleaner and healthier environment, the Ekiti State Government has announced that the monthly environmental sanitation exercise for May will hold on Saturday, 30th May, 2026, between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. across all Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state. The theme for this month’s exercise is “A Clean Environment is Everyone’s Responsibility: Stop Illegal Dumping of Sewage and Hazardous Substances,” emphasizing the importance of cleanliness in preventing disease outbreaks and safeguarding public health. The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, called on all residents to embrace the sanitation exercise as part of their civic responsibility. According to her, environmental cleanliness remains essential to healthy living and sustainable development. She explained that there would be no restriction of movement during the exercise due to the working visit of the Wife of the President to the state, but residents are ~still~ expected to ~actively~ participate by cleaning their homes, drains, surroundings, and business premises. In preparation for the exercise, market women are expected to clean their shops on Thursday, while public servants are to clean their offices on Friday ahead of the main sanitation day. Environmental Health Officers from the Ministry of Environment, alongside officials from LGAs, LCDAs, non-governmental organizations, and security agencies, will monitor the exercise and ensure compliance. The Commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to environmental health and sustainable sanitation, stressing that maintaining a clean Ekiti requires collective responsibility and active community participation.

MINISTRY WARNS TRADERS AGAINST DISPLAYING GOODS UNDER NEW FLYOVER The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has warned traders and shop owners against displaying their goods under the newly constructed flyover in the state capital. The warning was issued during a decongestion exercise carried out by the Environmental Health and Sanitation Department of the Ministry to ensure environmental cleanliness, free flow of traffic, and public safety around the flyover area. Speaking during the exercise, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, described the indiscriminate display of goods under the flyover as unacceptable and capable of causing obstruction and environmental nuisance. According to her, the state government remains committed to maintaining a clean, orderly, and safe environment for residents, stressing that the flyover surroundings are not designated for trading activities. Erelu Aluko-Ajisafe urged traders to relocate to approved market spaces and comply with environmental regulations to avoid penalties and enforcement actions. She further warned that continued violation of environmental laws and illegal occupation of public spaces would not be tolerated, noting that routine monitoring and enforcement exercises would continue across the state. The Commissioner therefore appealed to residents and traders to cooperate with government officials in sustaining a cleaner, healthier, and more organized environment across the state.

“Wishing All Muslim Faithful in Ekiti State and Across Nigeria a Joyful and Peaceful Eid El Kabir Celebration. May this sacred season of sacrifice, love, and obedience to Allah bring abundant blessings, happiness, good health, and prosperity to every home. May our prayers be accepted, our hearts be filled with peace, and our communities continue to flourish in unity and harmony. As we celebrate, let us also uphold the values of cleanliness, compassion, peaceful coexistence, and care for our environment for a healthier and better society. Happy Eid El Kabir Celebration. Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ekiti State.”