Report on advocacy visit to the Committee on Environment, Ekiti State.

Date: March 19, 2024

Venue: Ekiti State House of Assembly building, State Secretariat, Ado-Ekiti.

Purpose: Strengthening Partnerships for Evidence-Based Environmental Development in Ekiti State.

Time: 10am prompt

Attendees:

TGED Foundation Team: Ms Oluwaseyi Ebenezer[CEO]

Ms Adeleye Adeola [Program Manager]

Akinnubi Oluwatobi [Communication Manager]

Ms Koiki Nimota Adunola [Program Officer]

Committee Members Hon Okieman Iyabode [Chairman]

Hon Adeoye Ogunsakin [Vice Chairman]

Hon Babatunde Idowu [Member]

Hon Kehinde Adaramodu [Member]

Hon Kareem Agunbiade [Member]

Mr Ajisafe Adelodun [Committee Clerk]

Mrs Jegede Oluwabukunmi [Assistance Clerk]

Introduction:

TGED Foundation, a stalwart advocate for environmental sustainability, recently embarked on a momentous journey, marked by a crucial advocacy visit to the esteemed House Committee on Environment. Led by the Chairperson, Honorable Okeiman Iyabode, this pivotal meeting symbolized our unyielding dedication to nurturing cooperative alliances with key stakeholders, all in the pursuit of ushering in a greener and more sustainable future for our planet. During this significant encounter, we emphasized our steadfast commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges and implementing innovative solutions that promote ecological balance and resilience.

 Our discussions underscored the urgency of collective action and the imperative need for robust policies that safeguard our natural resources and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Through constructive dialogue and shared insights, we forged pathways for collaboration, fostering synergy between governmental bodies, civil society, and private sectors. By harnessing our collective expertise and resources, we aspire to enact meaningful change, fostering a harmonious coexistence between humanity and the environment.

Key points

• The program commenced with an opening prayer led by Mr Ajisafe Adelokun, the Committee Clerk, following this, Mr. Ajisafe introduced the sitting members of the committee, providing a framework for the proceedings. Subsequently, Mr. Akinnubi Oluwatobi, the Communication Manager of the TGED Foundation, introduced the foundation’s team. 
• Following the introductions, Ms. Oluwaseyi Ebenezer, the CEO of TGED Foundation, delivered an open speech, expressing gratitude for the privilege of engaging with the esteemed committee. She commended the committee’s efforts in advancing the state’s progress and lauded Chairman Okeiman Iyabode for exemplary leadership and partnership. Ms. Ebenezer emphasized the significance of the foundation’s visit, highlighting its commitment to fostering collaboration and synergy with the House Committee on Environment. Recognizing the pivotal role of legislative bodies in shaping environmental policies, she underscored the shared responsibility for sustainable development. Moreover, she outlined key areas for collaboration, emphasizing TGED Foundation’s dedication to implementing innovative projects addressing environmental challenges while promoting sustainable practices in communities. Key areas of collaboration includes: Data-Driven Environmental Policy Development, Capacity Building and Training, Sustainable Development Projects, Public Awareness and Advocacy Campaigns
• Ms. Oluwaseyi Ebenezer further expressed confidence that the collaboration between TGED Foundation and the committee would yield tangible results, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient Ekiti State. Through shared vision, unwavering commitment, and collaborative action, she believed that even the most daunting environmental challenges could be overcome, creating a brighter, greener future for all.

In conclusion, she urged the House Committee on Environment to seize the opportunity to forge a strong and enduring partnership with TGED Foundation. Together, leveraging data-driven decision-making, innovative solutions, and community engagement, they could drive sustainable environmental development in Ekiti State.

• Following Ms. Oluwaseyi Ebenezer’s speech, Honorable Chairman Okeiman Iyabode took the stage, expressing gratitude to the CEO of TGED Foundation for her consistent engagement. He commended her for her commendable efforts towards environmental sustainability and extended appreciation to all committee members. Highlighting the alignment of TGED Foundation’s advocacy visits with the sustainability agenda of Ekiti State, Chairman Iyabode emphasized the urgency of environmental issues in the present time. He assured the foundation of the committee’s support in drafting and proposing policies, stressing the committee’s role in enlightenment and enforcement.
• Mr. Idowu Babatunde, a member of the committee, echoing the sentiments of the chairman, emphasized the importance of TGED Foundation’s mission. Recalling his acquaintance with the CEO of TGED Foundation since 2019/2020, he acknowledged her steadfastness and capacity in advocating for a sustainable environment. Mr. Babatunde praised the CEO’s past achievements, citing her ability to persuade the late Mr. Afuye, Speaker of the House of Assembly, and other members on important matters. He encouraged her to persevere in her endeavors, assuring her that the committee would continue to support the foundation’s initiatives.

• Mr. Ogunsakin Adeoye, the Vice Chairman, extended his appreciation to the TGED Foundation. He noted a prevailing lack of awareness regarding proper waste management in Ekiti State. Emphasizing the importance of education, sensitization, and awareness, particularly within schools and among adults, Mr. Adeoye urged the foundation to focus on these areas. He believed that by prioritizing education and awareness, the foundation could transform people’s perceptions of the environment. With improved understanding, individuals would adopt behaviors beneficial to both the ecosystem and themselves, leading to a more sustainable coexistence.
• Adeleye Adeola, the Program Manager of TGED Foundation, elaborated on the educational initiatives the foundation has undertaken, particularly highlighting the Eco Savers School Project (ESSP). ESSP aims to educate school children about the pressing environmental challenges, notably climate change. This program has been ongoing for two years, spanning from 2022 to 2023, and continues into 2024. Adola stressed the importance of empowering the younger generation with knowledge about global environmental issues and how they can contribute to mitigating their impacts.

Additionally, she mentioned the foundation’s efforts to establish Eco Clubs in schools, further promoting sustainability. Ms. Oluwaseyi reinforced these points by emphasizing that the program not only focuses on theoretical teaching but also incorporates practical aspects. Students are taught how to creatively repurpose waste materials, particularly plastic pollution, demonstrating tangible actions they can take to address environmental concerns.

• Mr. Ogunsakin proposed that initiatives like the Eco Savers School Project should not only be limited to the committee but should also be presented to the entire assembly. He suggested that such programs could be integrated into school curricula. Chairman Honorable Okeiman Iyabode echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of TGED Foundation involving the assembly in all planned initiatives. Chairman Iyabode further mentioned that for the commemoration of World Forest Day 2024, she had directed committee members to attend the program. 
• Mr. Stanley Okonkwo, an Advisory Committee member of TGED Foundation, expressed gratitude to everyone present, anticipating that the meeting would catalyze positive change in the state. He highlighted the growing concern over environmental toxicity in Lagos State, prompting people to seek greener pastures where they can live comfortably. He commended Ekiti State for being one of the most peaceful and conducive places to live in the country and encouraged the House Committee to continue working towards maintaining peace and tranquility.

• The meeting concluded with everyone reciting “the grace,” symbolizing unity and mutual respect as they departed, carrying with them a shared commitment to environmental sustainability and collective progress.