The Ogun State government has reinforced its dedication to establishing a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable industrial environment across the state. This commitment was emphasized during a significant two-day workshop designed for Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) officers, waste vendors, and Private Sector Participants (PSPs).
Government's Firm Stance on Environmental Standards
During the event titled "Synergy, Standards, Solutions: Forging a New Era of Waste Management in Ogun State," the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Oladimeji Oresanya, outlined the government's comprehensive approach. Represented by Mr. Akinbode Shofela, the Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Oresanya stressed that achieving proper industrial waste management requires collaboration among stakeholders, strict adherence to established standards, and the development of practical solutions.
He confirmed that the administration under Prince Dapo Abiodun remains fully devoted to creating an environment that supports both industrial productivity and public welfare. "This workshop complements these initiatives and helps reinforce the message that sustainable industrial development is the shared responsibility of every facility operating within our borders," Oresanya stated.
Consequences and Benefits of Waste Management
The Commissioner detailed the severe impacts of improper industrial waste management, highlighting several critical concerns:
- Soil and water contamination
- Air pollution and environmental degradation
- Occupational hazards and public health risks
- Long-term environmental damage
However, Oresanya also emphasized the positive outcomes of proper waste management practices, noting that they enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, improve corporate reputation, and promote a circular economy.
Workshop Origins and Previous Success
Hon. Abayomi Hunye, the Special Adviser and Managing Director of Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA), explained that the workshop emerged from his thorough inspections and observations of companies throughout the state. He revealed that a similar workshop conducted last year yielded commendable results, with noticeable improvements in compliance levels.
"The level of companies' compliance with the state's directives is commendable, as is the attitude of PSPs towards the evacuation of waste," Hunye noted while declaring the workshop open.
Regulatory Framework and Certification Goals
Hon. Kehinde Bello, General Manager of the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), represented by Director of Inspectorate and Compliance Monitoring Oluyemisi Osinaike, emphasized the workshop's vital role in enhancing competence and fostering collaboration. He stressed the importance of industrial standards enforced through regulatory frameworks designed to promote waste reduction, recycling, and safe disposal.
These standards align with circular economy principles, global best practices, and Sustainable Development Goals while addressing local industrial and environmental needs. Bello challenged all industrial facilities present to pursue various certifications including ISO 14001 for environmental management and ISO 45001 for safety professionals, noting that these certifications enhance compliance and drive continuous improvement.
The workshop, organized by OGWAMA, attracted more than 1,000 stakeholders, including waste vendors and HSE officers, demonstrating significant interest in advancing sustainable industrial practices throughout Ogun State.
