Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved the establishment of a committee to develop a circular economy, climate change policy, and roadmap, aiming to advance environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

While disclosing the move by Aiyedatiwa at the Governor’s Office, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr Tob Loko, emphasised the administration’s dedication to fostering a green, sustainable, and economically vibrant future for the state.

According to Loko, the committee is mandated to develop a comprehensive policy framework that will drive the state’s transition to a circular economy, minimising waste and maximising resource efficiency, as well as formulating a climate change roadmap that will be aligned with Nigeria’s national commitments, the Paris Agreement, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Loko added that the initiatives will in no small measure enhance and promote green innovation, investment, and job creation across key sectors, including agriculture, energy, waste management, and manufacturing.

The environment commissioner revealed that the committee will comprise experts from diverse fields, including government ministries, development agencies, the private sector, academia, and civil society organisations.

He said: “Ondo State recognises that climate change and environmental degradation pose serious risks to our economy, livelihoods, and health. However, they also present unprecedented opportunities for industrial transformation, resource efficiency and climate-smart development.

“The circular economy and climate policy will enable waste-to-wealth solutions and circular business models, enhance the state’s carbon credit readiness and access to climate finance, support youth employment through green job creation, strengthen community resilience to climate shocks, particularly in rural and coastal areas, and position Ondo State as a subnational leader in environmental governance and green economic growth.

“The Ondo State Government is committed to inclusive consultation and partnership throughout this process. We call on all stakeholders, including local communities, the private sector, and development partners, to actively support this historic shift toward a circular, climate-resilient economy.”