AGENCIES TO STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP FOR A CLEANER KWARA

The Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Geographic Information Service (KWGIS), ESV Abdulkareem Babatunde Sulyman, has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to work closely with Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA), with the aim of promoting a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment in the state.

Sulyman gave the assurance during the past week, while receiving the General Manager of KWEPA, Hon. Jide Aina, and his management team, in a courtesy visit to KWGIS headquarters, GRA, Ilorin, the state capital.

He stressed that collaboration among government agencies is crucial to achieving the vision of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for a peaceful and livable state.

“Our doors are always open for synergy and partnership on issues that will make life better for residents. Environmental sustainability is at the heart of our work, we are therefore ready to provide the necessary clarifications and supports where needed,” he said.

On his part, the KWEPA boss, Hon. Aina, emphasized the need for stronger inter agency collaboration, to avoid duplication of efforts and ensure effective environmental regulation.

“One of our core mandates is to secure a clean environment for the sustainable development of the state.” By law, KWGIS should be part of our technical committee, and we believe if all relevant ministries and agencies are fully involved, it will give us the needed synergy, to carry out our mandate effectively.”

He explained that KWEPA had often encountered challenges during enforcement activities, particularly in monitoring emerging industries and developments across the state.

 “These, sometimes result in overlapping roles and contradictory actions between agencies. “Instead of contradictions, we want to deepen synergy with KWGIS, so we can jointly enforce regulations and develop an environmental management plan that works for everyone,” he said.

The General Manager also raised concerns about improper land-use approvals, particularly the siting of residential buildings within industrial layouts and cautioned that, such practices could lead to avoidable disputes and issues like noise pollution.

“With the growing investment in real estate in Kwara, it is important to start planning properly, to avoid future complaints about waste management and environmental sustainability in new estates,” Aina advised.

He then highlighted the need for better drainage systems in the state, noting that effective planning and synergy among agencies would go a long way in addressing flooding and related challenges.

The meeting ended with both agencies pledging to establish a framework for regular dialogue and joint technical reviews, to align their operations in line with the state’s environmental policies.

Stakeholders at the meeting also expressed optimism that the renewed partnership between KWGIS and KWEPA would strengthen environmental governance, reduce contradictions in enforcement, and help build a safer, healthier, and more sustainable Kwara State.

Rowland Olonishuwa, Press Secretary, KWGIS

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