Ondo State partners with African Cleanup initiative on waste recycling, sanitation compliance

NIGERIA – Ondo State Government has partnered with the African Cleanup Initiative to strengthen waste recycling and sanitation compliance, with the NGO planning a September 2026 rollout of environmental education, community cleanup and recycling programmes across all 18 local government areas.

The partnership was formalised during a courtesy visit by the ACI delegation, led by State Team Lead Favour Adefemi, to the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, in Akure. 

Adefemi described ACI as a non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting proper waste management, recycling, climate change awareness and healthier communities. 

The organisation has operated nationally for several years, with the Ondo State Chapter established only months ago. 

Grassroots Advocacy and Media Campaigns Target Declining Sanitation Participation

Adefemi identified declining public participation in the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, indiscriminate refuse disposal, blocked drainage channels and poor waste management practices as major environmental challenges confronting the state. 

She stressed that achieving a cleaner environment requires collective responsibility, noting that government efforts alone would not be sufficient without sustained public enlightenment.

The initiative is seeking the Ministry’s partnership in driving grassroots advocacy, media campaigns and awareness programmes in local languages to encourage responsible environmental practices. 

The organisation appealed for publicity support and communication strategies to inspire greater public involvement in safeguarding the environment.

September Rollout and Government Commitment

ACI plans to officially launch full-scale operations in September 2026 with environmental education campaigns in schools, advocacy visits, community cleanup exercises and recycling programmes across the state’s 18 local government areas. 

Commissioner Ajanaku commended the initiative for its commitment to environmental sustainability, describing a clean environment as fundamental to healthy living and sustainable development. 

He noted that the organisation’s vision aligns with the developmental agenda of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, particularly in fostering a cleaner, healthier and more habitable environment. 

Ajanaku assured the delegation of the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate in mobilising residents, promoting environmental sanitation and supporting advocacy programmes capable of influencing positive behavioural change. 

Permanent Secretary Lanre Akarakiri described the initiative as a timely intervention deserving the support of all stakeholders, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to public enlightenment and community development partnerships.

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