Ibeju-Lekki Local Government hosted this year’s World Environment Day celebration for the Epe Division, rallying local leaders, community stakeholders and students around the theme: “Ending Plastic Pollution.”
EpeInsights reports that the event, which brought together LGAs and LCDAs from across the division, was marked by passionate calls for action, powerful performances and awards recognizing environmental excellence.
Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LGA, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, sounded the alarm on the worsening crisis of plastic pollution.
“If the source of a problem is known, the solution is near,” he declared, urging each representative present to return to their local councils and intensify grassroots campaigns against the use of synthetic polymers.
“Improper waste disposal has become a cultural habit that must change. We must treat environmental sanitation as a civic duty,” he emphasized, calling for a collective effort to safeguard public health and support government initiatives across all levels.
Delivering the welcome address on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr. Bolaji Fasasi described plastic waste as a major health threat to both humans and marine life.
“The consequences are dire, from ecological degradation to severe public health risks affecting the young and old,” he said.
Representing the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, the Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, highlighted the link between Lagos’s surging population and the strain on environmental resources.
“Lagos is bursting at the seams. With plastics taking up to 500 years to decompose, the urgency to act cannot be overstated. Our goal is zero waste,” he stressed.
The ceremony also featured a lively performance from students of Ibeju High School, who creatively advocated for a plastic-free environment through drama and song.
In recognition of community efforts, Michael Otedola Housing Estate, Odo-Iragushi, Eredo, clinched first place in the Cleanest CDA category, followed by Divine Estate, Bogije, and Adekunle Raheem Street, Epe in second and third places respectively.
The Environmental Champions Award went to Ibeju-Lekki LGA itself, a testament to the leadership role it played in this year’s celebration.
Notable dignitaries at the event included Mrs. Abisola Azeez, Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation; Mr. Abiodun Oladipupo Otinwa, Council Manager; Mrs. Mary Akinola, Head of Environmental Services; Mr. Sotubo Adeyemi Oladipupo, Director of Admin and HR; as well as representatives from the CDC and National Youth Council (NYCN).
