*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.
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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.
Welcome to June Ekiti Kete..
May this month be filled with joy, peace, and prosperity for all. As we journey through it together, let us champion truth, promote unity, and rise above the noise of misinformation.
Wishing you a truly blessed month ahead.
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.”
EKITI ENVIRONMENT MINISTRY SEALS RESIDENTIAL BUILDING OVER IMPROPER SEWAGE EVACUATION
The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has sealed a residential building along Ilawe road in Ado-Ekiti following the indiscriminate discharge of sewage onto the street during the evacuation of a septic tank.
The enforcement action was carried out after the Ministry received reports from concerned residents over the environmental and public health hazards caused by the sewage evacuation into the street.
The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, led the team to inspect the situation and assess the level of environmental violation.
Speaking during the inspection, the Commissioner condemned the act, describing it as unacceptable and dangerous to public health, stressing that residents and operators handling sewage disposal must comply strictly with environmental sanitation regulations.
She warned that the state government would not tolerate practise capable of endangering the health and wellbeing of citizens or causing environmental pollution in residential communities.
Also present during the inspection and enforcement exercise were the Permanent Secretary Ministry of environment and natural resources,Dr. Sunday Omoya, General Manager of the State Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), Mr Olukayode Adumo , the General Manager of Ekiti State Waste Management Authority, Engr. Tawose Adekunle, Director Environmental Health and Sanitation San. Ayodele Aluko as well as Environmental Health Officers of the Ministry.
The affected property was subsequently sealed pending compliance with environmental safety and sanitation requirements, while further investigations and necessary actions are expected to follow.
EKITI ENVIRONMENT MINISTRY SEALS RESIDENTIAL BUILDING OVER IMPROPER SEWAGE EVACUATION
The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has sealed a residential building along Ilawe road in Ado-Ekiti following the indiscriminate discharge of sewage onto the street during the evacuation of a septic tank.
The enforcement action was carried out after the Ministry received reports from concerned residents over the environmental and public health hazards caused by the sewage evacuation into the street.
The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, led the team to inspect the situation and assess the level of environmental violation.
Speaking during the inspection, the Commissioner condemned the act, describing it as unacceptable and dangerous to public health, stressing that residents and operators handling sewage disposal must comply strictly with environmental sanitation regulations.
She warned that the state government would not tolerate practise capable of endangering the health and wellbeing of citizens or causing environmental pollution in residential communities.
Also present during the inspection and enforcement exercise were the Permanent Secretary Ministry of environment and natural resources,Dr. Sunday Omoya, General Manager of the State Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), Mr Olukayode Adumo , the General Manager of Ekiti State Waste Management Authority, Engr. Tawose Adekunle, Director Environmental Health and Sanitation San. Ayodele Aluko as well as Environmental Health Officers of the Ministry.
The affected property was subsequently sealed pending compliance with environmental safety and sanitation requirements, while further investigations and necessary actions are expected to follow.
EKITI ENVIRONMENT MINISTRY SEALS ONE EATERY, WARNS OTHERS OVER POOR SANITATION
The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has sealed one eatery in Ado-Ekiti and issued warnings to another during an enforcement exercise aimed at addressing environmental sanitation breaches linked to the persistent odour nuisance in parts of the state capital.
The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, led the monitoring and enforcement team during inspections around Satellite Junction and other parts of Ado-Ekiti.
During the operation, Belloni Kitchen was sealed for violating environmental sanitation regulations.
The Commissioner disclosed that preliminary findings indicated that the facility allegedly stored waste in a septic tank and discharged it into nearby drainage channels at night, a practice said to contribute to environmental pollution and offensive odour in the area.
Another eatery, Amala Spot, was also issued a strong warning for unsanitary conditions, with the Ministry directing immediate compliance with environmental health standards to avoid further sanctions.
She cautioned business owners and residents against indiscriminate waste disposal and other practices capable of endangering public health, stressing that the government would not hesitate to enforce environmental laws strictly.
The Commissioner also visited a gas plant as part of the inspection tour and later proceeded to Oja Bisi Market, where she urged traders to maintain a clean environment and desist from displaying goods on walkways.
She further called on residents to report any suspicious environmental activities in their communities that could result in odour pollution or other public health risks.
According to her, the state government remains committed to sustained monitoring, enforcement, and environmental sanitation reforms aimed at restoring a cleaner and healthier environment across Ekiti State.
She also appealed to residents to allow the law to take its full course in cases where offenders are arrested, emphasizing the need for cooperation with enforcement agencies to ensure justice and effective environmental protection.
*Ekiti Govt, Stakeholders Intensify Action Against Reported Odour Nuisance*
The Ekiti State Government has intensified efforts to address the persistent odour nuisance reportedly being experienced in parts of Ado-Ekiti and neighbouring communities, with stakeholders calling for stronger collaboration, enforcement, scientific investigations and increased public sensitisation to tackle the challenge.
Speaking during an expanded stakeholders’ meeting convened to deliberate on reports of the strange odour and its environmental health implications in the state, the State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mrs Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting public health and ensuring environmental safety, noting that several proactive measures had already been taken to combat the offensive odour.
According to her, the government has intensified sanitary inspections, carried out fumigation exercises, engaged relevant stakeholders and commenced the arrest and prosecution of offenders linked to environmental pollution.
She called on residents, community leaders, religious organisations and NGOs to support government efforts by promoting proper sanitation and reporting activities capable of causing environmental pollution.
The commissioner warned that anyone found violating environmental health laws would face the full weight of the law.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Sunday Omoya, said the meeting was part of ongoing efforts to identify and address the source of the odour reportedly perceived in some parts of the state capital.
Omoya noted that the ministry had continued to collaborate with relevant stakeholders while strengthening interventions aimed at restoring a healthy environment in the state.
Officials of the State Ministry of Health and Human Services, who gave updates on the situation, disclosed that different forms of offensive odour had been reported from several locations within and outside Ado-Ekiti.
The Director of Public Health, Dr Abayomi Ibrahim, said the odour was said to be mostly perceived during late-night and early morning hours, particularly in elevated areas, before fading as the day progressed.
He added that some residents had reportedly experienced symptoms such as headaches and nausea due to the pungent smell.
Stakeholders at the meeting stressed the need for broader investigations beyond waste management activities, noting that manufacturing operations, chemical processing, mining activities and improper waste disposal into waterways could also contribute to the problem.
Representatives of security agencies, including the Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), pledged continued support for enforcement efforts and called for stronger environmental laws, increased inspections and sustained public enlightenment campaigns.
The General Manager of the State Waste Management Authority, said officials had carried out inspections at dump sites, Dino bin locations and operational areas of waste management partners, noting that none had so far been identified as the direct source of the odour
He added that fumigation activities had already been conducted
Other stakeholders from the State Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), State Waste Management Authority, Ekiti State University and the Ministry of Information advocated improved data gathering, inter-agency collaboration and closer monitoring of border communities to identify the exact source of the odour and prevent future occurrences.
She added that the government would ensure registration and proper regulation of activities capable of constituting environmental nuisance, as well as commence plans for land allocation for proper sewage management.
The Ministry urged members of the public to report cases of environmental pollution or offensive odour through its toll-free line, 08000606606.
*EKSG Intensifies Climate Action with Tree Planting Initiative*
The Ekiti State Government has intensified efforts to address the growing impacts of climate change through strengthened tree planting initiatives and strategic partnerships.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, made this known while receiving the first tranche of 200 indigenous tree seedlings donated by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Oyo State.
She noted that the effects of climate change have become increasingly severe, making it necessary to scale up practical interventions aimed at reducing environmental degradation.
According to her, tree planting remains a key strategy for improving air quality, conserving biodiversity, and promoting a healthier ecosystem.
The seedlings were distributed to selected schools and hospitals across the state through the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), and the Hospitals Management Board (HMB) while some are to be planted within the state secretariat.
Erelu Aluko- Ajisafe explained that the initiative is designed to promote environmental responsibility among students, health institutions, and communities, while contributing to long-term climate resilience in Ekiti State.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to sustaining environmental protection programmes and called on residents to support the initiative by planting and nurturing trees, stressing that collective action is essential to safeguarding the environment for present and future generations.
Ekiti Govt Cracks Down on Illegal Waste Disposal.
... Man Arrested for discharging offensive waste into stream
The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has intensified enforcement against illegal waste disposal following the arrest of a man accused of discharging offensive waste into a stream near Summit Resort in the Federal Housing Estate area of Ado-Ekiti.
The ministry said the suspect was apprehended through the vigilance of residents, who reportedly raised the alarm after he allegedly attempted to flee the scene after dumping the obnoxious substance into the stream, causing severe odour nuisance in the area.
It said a joint response team comprising officials of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the Ministry of Health and Human Services, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), and police officers from the Oke-Ila Division was immediately mobilised to the location, leading to the arrest of the suspect.
According to preliminary investigations, the suspect ,one Mr Tunde Oshin allegedly dumped waste consisting of degraded cow blood and other animal waste into the flowing stream, thereby contaminating the environment and posing potential health risks to residents.
Officials subsequently carried out fumigation and decontamination of the affected area, while samples were collected for laboratory analysis to ascertain the environmental and health implications of the contamination.
In a related development, the state government has commenced legal action against a waste management company accused of indiscriminate sewage disposal within the Ado-Ekiti metropolis.
Officials of the company have been arraigned before a Magistrate Court and granted bail, while the case was adjourned until May 19, 2026.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mrs Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, condemned the incidents, warning that the government would not tolerate environmental violations or acts capable of endangering public health.
She said enforcement and surveillance had been intensified across the state to ensure strict compliance with environmental regulations.
Aluko-Ajisafe also commended residents of Federal Housing Estate, Ado-Ekiti, for their vigilance and urged other residents to remain environmentally conscious and promptly report any form of environmental abuse to relevant authorities for swift intervention.
PRESS RELEASE
EKITI STATE GOVERNMENT INTENSIFIES RESPONSE TO ODOUR NUISANCE, CALLS FOR PUBLIC SUPPORT
The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and environmental quality following reports of recurrent odour nuisance in parts of Ado-Ekiti metropolis.
The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Tosin Aluko Ajisafe, said government is aware of concerns being raised by residents over unusual odours perceived in some areas, particularly during the late hours of the night.
According to the Commissioner, most of the information received so far has come through social media.
She noted that no formal complaint has been officially lodged with the Ministry indicating the exact locations where the odour is being experienced.
She explained that precise information from residents remains crucial to enable the Ministry to carry out proper investigation and take immediate action where necessary.
“As Commissioner for Environment, I want to personally assure residents that this matter is being taken seriously. If you are experiencing this odour in your area, I strongly encourage you to come forward with clear details of the location. This will enable us to visit the area, investigate properly and take swift action,” she said.
The Commissioner further stated that enforcement operations have been intensified across affected areas, leading to the sealing of facilities found culpable of violating environmental health standards. She added that illegal and unhygienic activities contributing to the odour are being closely monitored to prevent recurrence.
As part of ongoing remedial measures, the Ministry has carried out fumigation of affected areas and facilitated the evacuation of sewage and waste from identified dumpsites. Environmental surveillance teams have also been deployed to track and detect possible sources of odour emissions across the state, while investigations continue.
She noted that environmental officers of the Ministry are carrying out daily house-to-house inspections across communities, working tirelessly to ensure that environmental health standards are maintained.
The Commissioner emphasized that constructive engagement from members of the public would greatly assist government efforts, urging residents to report any unusual or persistent odours directly to the Ministry by calling the following numbers 08062326692 or 08032132076.
She also called on residents to support the administration of Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji in its drive to maintain a clean, safe and healthy environment across Ekiti State.
Signed
Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources
Ekiti State
The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has successfully carried out and completed clearing activities at the Fajuyi area of Ado Ekiti, covering the stretch from Pavilion Flank to the Police Headquarters.
The exercise involved the removal of stubborn grass and excessive weeds to enhance environmental aesthetics and prevent the breeding of pests of public health importance.
Residents are encouraged to support these efforts by maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
SANITATION ENFORCEMENT UPDATE – ADO-EKITI
The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has intensified its environmental health and sanitation enforcement across Ado-Ekiti metropolis, following complaints from residents on unhygienic conditions.
Locations Inspected & Actions Taken:
Odo Ado (Federal Poly Road)
A dilapidated building with cracking walls, leaking roof, and indiscriminate refuse dumping was identified.
Action: Abatement Notice served. Occupants directed to vacate. Owner to report to the Ministry.
Housing Estate, Afao Road (Chicken Processing Shop)
Unsanitary environment with offensive odour and an overfilled catch pit.
Action: Abatement Notice issued. Facility sealed off.
Suya Vendor
Dirty environment with heavy fly infestation due to lack of proper netting.
Action: Abatement Notice served. Operator to report to the Ministry.
The Ministry remains committed to ensuring a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all. Residents and business owners are urged to maintain proper sanitation and comply with environmental regulations.
See something, say something! Report environmental violations to the Ministry.
#KeepEkitiClean #EnvironmentalSanitation #PublicHealth #AdoEkiti
Environmental sanitation efforts continue across Ado-Ekiti metropolis
Trimming of flowers at Irona Roundabout
Clearing of overgrown weeds from Fabotas School to Ologede Police Station
Ongoing work at New Iyin Road and areas opposite MOB House, Iyin-Ekiti
Simultaneous clearing along Ajilosun–Ikere Road (NEPA → Agri Olope Junction → Mobile Petrol Station
Together, we keep Ekiti clean and healthy.
#CleanEkiti #EnvironmentalSanitation #AdoEkiti
EKITI GOVERNMENT ARRAIGNS COMPANY OVER ILLEGAL SEWAGE DISPOSAL IN ADO-EKITI
The Ekiti State Government has taken legal action against a waste management company accused of indiscriminate dumping of sewage within Ado-Ekiti metropolis, as part of ongoing efforts to curb offensive odour and safeguard public health.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, has ordered the prosecution following investigations that revealed that the company, engaged in evacuating filled septic tanks, failed to provide a designated disposal site for the sewage it collected.
According to the Ministry, such illegal waste disposal not only creates serious environmental nuisance but also poses significant health risks to residents of Ado-Ekiti and its environs.
The company owner was subsequently arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti on charges bordering on indiscriminate disposal of sewage, an offence contrary to the Environmental Health and Sanitation (Re-enacted) Law No. 21 of 2020 of Ekiti State.
The presiding Magistrate granted the defendant bail in the sum of ₦50,000 with one surety in like sum, while the case was adjourned to May 19, 2026, for further hearing.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner warned other operators in the waste management sector to desist from illegal practises, stressing that the government would not hesitate to enforce environmental laws.
She emphasized that protecting the health and well-being of Ekiti residents remains a top priority, noting that prevention of environmental hazards is both safer and more cost-effective than addressing their consequences.