Oyo State partners with Netherlands to boost waste management and circular economy

NIGERIA – The Oyo State Government is set to partner with the Kingdom of the Netherlands in a move to enhance waste management practices and promote a circular economy aimed at driving environmental sustainability and economic growth.

This collaboration was announced during a high-level meeting held at the Ministry of Environment in Ibadan, where state government officials met with Dutch government representatives. 

Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, Oyo State’s Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, emphasized the significance of the partnership.

He noted that while the circular economy is a relatively new concept for the state, it presents valuable opportunities for sustainable development. 

“We are ready to partner with the Netherlands government, but we need a clear roadmap on how the circular economy works,” Mogbonjubola said.

“This marks the beginning of a new relationship, and we will ensure the necessary follow-up actions are taken to make this a success.”

To support the initiative, the commissioner announced the establishment of a Circular Economy Desk within the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.

The new unit will coordinate efforts, draw expertise from existing institutions, and develop strategies to implement circular economy principles across the state’s waste management framework.

Mogbonjubola expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “I am excited this is happening during my tenure. We already have a platform, but we haven’t fully leveraged it. Now, Oyo State is ready to take the bull by the horns.”

Representing the Consulate General of the Netherlands, Peter Kelley highlighted the economic and environmental potential of waste recycling, noting that success lies in collaboration.

“As it works in the Netherlands, it can work here—provided we engage all stakeholders, including the government, private businesses, local communities, and academic institutions,” Kelley said.

“The consulate general’s role is to facilitate this process and support Oyo State in building a sustainable system.”

Also present at the meeting was the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Sunday Ojelabi, who expressed appreciation for the Netherlands’ interest in supporting Oyo State’s sustainability agenda.

He described the engagement as timely and critical for driving innovation and long-term impact in the state’s waste management sector.

The partnership is expected to unlock new opportunities in recycling, create green jobs, and improve environmental health, marking a significant step forward in Oyo State’s journey toward a cleaner and more circular economy.

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