The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Dr. Adedeji Ashiru, has urged Nigerians to take collective action to protect the environment, citing the increasing effects of global warming and climate change. On September 28, 2026, Ashiru made the call during a tree-planting exercise and public awareness roadshow in Abeokuta, Ogun State, to commemorate the 2026 World Rivers Day celebration. The event's theme, "No Forest, No Rivers, No Water, No Life," emphasizes the interconnectedness of environmental protection and human survival.
Ashiru noted that Nigeria is experiencing unpredictable rainfall and flooding due to climate change, stressing that collective action can help mitigate the impact of climate-related disasters. He emphasized that environmental degradation is not solely the responsibility of industries or government agencies, but also the actions of ordinary citizens. The Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority boss encouraged individuals, communities, and governments to take responsibility for protecting the environment.
The tree-planting exercise was part of the celebration aimed at reinforcing the need to halt deforestation and protect forests, rivers, and waterways. Ashiru explained that the exercise symbolized the authority's commitment to environmental protection and urged residents to support efforts aimed at preserving the environment. He also stressed that activities around local drainage systems can have consequences beyond their immediate surroundings.
Ashiru warned that waste dumped into drainage channels can be carried by rainwater into rivers, causing blockages that contribute to flooding. He urged residents to practice responsible waste disposal and protect trees and waterways as part of their daily responsibilities. The MD emphasized that every act of deforestation and every dump into a drainage can contribute to flooding and loss of life.
Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, represented by Mr. Kayode Akinwade, berated the unhygienic practice of blocking waterways with refuse, urging residents to adopt a strong attitudinal change to combat the practice. Oresanya also noted that planting trees along the riverside can help provide a strong embankment for the river, checking erosion and flooding while protecting surrounding communities.
Guest lecturer, Prof. Victoria Ojo, of the Department of Pasture and Range Management, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, warned that the destruction of forests poses a serious threat to the sustainability of rivers, water supply, and public health in Nigeria. She emphasized the interconnectedness of forests, rivers, and human survival, stressing that poor water management can increase the risk of diseases.
The event concluded with a call to action for residents to support efforts aimed at preserving the environment and protecting the ecosystem. The Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority's initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection and promote collective action to mitigate the impact of climate-related disasters.
Key points
- Deforestation and indiscriminate waste disposal are worsening flooding in Nigeria.
- Collective action is necessary to protect the environment and mitigate the impact of climate-related disasters.
- Environmental degradation is a collective responsibility that requires the involvement of individuals, communities, and governments.
