…We have unshackled the ministry from decades of operational impediments – Dr Tob Loko.
The Hon. Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko, has received the updated draft of the Ondo State Environmental Law from the Environmental Law Review Committee in his office in Akure.
The visit marked the formal submission of the committee’s assignment, which was initiated to review the state’s obsolete environmental laws. The Commissioner commended the committee for their dedication, describing their effort as selfless service to the state.
Dr. Loko noted that the achievement would not have been possible without the commitment and resilience of the members. He urged the committee to maintain continuous collaboration with the ministry, stressing that their wealth of experience would remain invaluable in implementing the new law.
The Commissioner appreciated the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for the privilege to serve the good people of Ondo State. We have unshackled the ministry from decades of operational impediments, he stated.
He recalled that upon his assumption of office, the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, mandated him to expedite the review of the state’s outdated environmental laws. The current laws, he said, were promulgated in 1993—32 years ago—and can no longer adequately address today’s challenges.
“It is impossible to rely on the laws of over three decades ago to solve the problems of today,” Dr. Loko stated. “For me, this is heart-warming, fulfilling, and significant. I am delighted that this milestone has been achieved in my time. My mandate is to deliver results, and I can proudly say this is one of them.”
Speaking earlier, the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Chairman of the committee, Mr. Kinga Olumide, praised the commitment of members, noting that they worked tirelessly—even at odd hours—without complaint.
Also, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Environmental Society, Mrs. Akinyanmi Boladale, expressed joy over the submission, describing it as the realization of a long-standing advocacy she had pursued while in active service.
In her remarks, the Director of Legal Services, Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Stella Adegoke, who presented the draft to the Commissioner, appreciated both the Governor and the Commissioner for the opportunity to serve. She added that strict adherence to the reviewed laws would yield significant positive impacts on the state’s environment.
The committee comprises professionals drawn from the Ministries of Justice, Energy Resources, and Environment; the Ondo State Environmental Protection Agency; the Waste Management Authority; the academia; and non-governmental organizations.
