The Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) is set to collaborate with the Oyo State government to ensure the sustainability of the business environment in the state.

The Director General of NECA, Adewale-Smart Oyerinde, said the step was to strengthen public-private dialogue for business environmental sustainability across the state.

Speaking in Ibadan during an engagement between the state government and the organised private sector, with the theme: ‘Strengthening Public-Private Dialogue for Environmental Sustainability in Oyo State”, Oyerinde stated that one of the biggest signals to collaboration is willingness to listen.

The NECA DG said the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has demonstrated willingness to listen to the organised private sector to ensure the sustainability of the business environment.

He observed that the government requires the private sector to propel development throughout the state, adding that the private sector also relies on the government to establish an enabling environment through regulations and laws.

“It is a mutually inclusive collaboration for all of us. If we don’t collaborate, the people we are trying to save —the masses —will suffer as a result.

“We are glad that we have taken this bold step with the Ministry of Environment, and we shall continue to deepen the engagement not only for the good of business, but for all citizens of the state,” he said.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Temilolu Ashamu, said the ministry remained committed to fostering a transparent, fair, and enabling regulatory environment that supports responsible partnerships and businesses.

He stated that his ministry is ready to provide technical assistance, engage regularly with stakeholders in policy and implementation and promote collaborative initiatives that will advance a collective environmental goal.

“Our doors are open for dialogue, partnership and innovation, as we strive to make environmental sustainability a cornerstone of development in Oyo State,” Ashamu said.

He, however, urged participants at the event to reflect on how their operations and investments cannot only comply with environmental laws, but also go beyond compliance to become champions of sustainability.

He emphasised the critical role the private sector played in promoting environmental protection and sustainable business practices.

“Your sector is a key driver of economic growth, innovation and job creation, and I believe that we can work together to achieve a more sustainable future.

“Sustainable development cannot be achieved alone by the government; it requires participation and active partnership with the private sector. Public-private partnerships have the potential to drive innovation, strengthen compliance and promote green investment.

“Our mutual goal is to create a thriving economy that does not come at the expense of our land, air, water and well-being of our people,” he said.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Oyo State House of Assembly Committee on Environment, Ecology, and Water Resources, Hon. Olorunpoto Rahaman, stated that the committee remained open to continuous collaboration with the organised private sector, both as a group and with individual companies.

“Beyond conversation, we must see action that inspires, responsibility and strengthens our shared resolve to leave behind a cleaner, safer and more sustainable Oyo State.”

Also, the chairman, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states, represented by the Treasurer, Sunday Aboriomoh, appealed to the Ministry of Environment to always carry MAN along in its decision-making and policy formulation that affect the environment in the state.

He said the Oyo State House of Assembly must also collaborate with the Ministry of Environment to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in the state.

He lamented that members of MAN are facing various challenges, such as a high exchange rate and high bank interest rates, which have forced some of their companies to fold, while others are operating at only 30 per cent capacity.

He, however, urged the government to encourage banks to offer MAN a low interest rate, thereby fostering an enabling environment and promoting economic development across Oyo State.