Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called on world leaders to redouble their efforts in combating climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate actions to address its growing impacts. He outlined several initiatives his state has undertaken to combat climate change, focusing on sustainability, adaptation, and resilience.
Speaking at a COP29 side event in Baku, Azerbaijan, Adeleke was represented by Prof. Chinwe Obuaku, Osun’s consultant on Climate Change and Renewable Energy. Obuaku highlighted several technical reports from reputable agencies that warned of the escalating consequences of climate change. She stressed the need for global collaboration and immediate action to mitigate its effects.
“The challenges of climate change are global, but our solutions can be local, scalable, and impactful,” the governor said in his speech. “Let us continue to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and invest in sustainable futures for all. Together, we can create a world where innovation, art, and environmental stewardship thrive side by side – where waste becomes wealth, and resilience becomes a shared legacy.”
Adeleke outlined Osun’s ongoing efforts in tackling climate change, aligning them with the themes of COP29. These initiatives include:
- Adaptation: Osun’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) equips sectors such as agriculture, water, infrastructure, and health with tools to assess emissions and vulnerabilities. Focal desk officers track greenhouse gas emissions to ensure targeted, actionable strategies.
- Circular Economy: The state is pioneering waste-to-wealth initiatives, involving both formal and informal sectors. Through waste characterization studies and the development of recycling hubs, Osun is creating economic opportunities while reducing environmental impact.
- Nature-Based Solutions: Osun is actively restoring degraded lands, such as the Onibueja dump site, through reforestation and creative reuse of waste. The Ago-Owu Forest project exemplifies the state’s commitment to ecosystem restoration.
- Renewable Energy Transition: Solar mini-grids, solar-powered farms, solar boreholes, and street lights are part of Osun’s efforts to transition to renewable energy. Additionally, clean cooking stoves and partnerships with international stakeholders are driving the state’s commitment to a just and inclusive clean energy future.
- Inclusive Development: Osun is mobilizing women, youth, and local communities to build a strong grassroots movement for climate action.
Governor Adeleke also praised Nigerian artist Dotun Popoola for his exhibition, Reclaimed Beauty, which features sculptures made from recycled metal and materials sourced from local dumpsites. The exhibit showcases the potential to turn waste into art, aligning with Osun’s circular economy goals and emphasizing sustainability.
“I commend the Heydar Aliyev Centre for hosting this extraordinary event, which highlights the intersection of art, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment—a vision we deeply embrace in Osun State,” Adeleke concluded.