The Newly appointed Supervisor for Health in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State Hon. Gbenga Raphael Ikusika, shared updates and insights on the local government’s ongoing efforts to improve environmental sanitation and public health standards, Peak Newspaper reports.
Hon Gbenga Ikusika stated this during an exclusive interview with Peak Newspaper Nigeria on Tuesday
The interview, which followed a strategic meeting held in his office with environmental inspectors and local stakeholders, centered on sustainable waste management, public compliance with environmental regulations, and community engagement.
Peak Newspaper Correspondent: Good morning, Honorable Ikusika. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today.
I’m happy to share insights about our local government’s environmental initiatives and the plans we’re putting in place to make Odigbo cleaner and healthier.
Correspondent: You’re the Supervisor for Health and represent the people of Ayesan Ward. Can you tell us about the recent meeting with environmental officers. The meeting was convened to review our environmental performance and strategize on how to improve waste management and sanitation. Our key priorities are to establish a permanent waste disposal site, strengthen enforcement of sanitation laws, and ensure that every resident plays their part in keeping our community clean.
Correspondent: What are the main challenges your office is currently facing in this regard?
Ikusika: The most pressing issue is the absence of a permanent dumping site. We’ve been operating with a temporary location, and that’s not sustainable. Another challenge is the level of public compliance, some residents and business owners still ignore environmental guidelines, which creates avoidable health risks.
Correspondent: How do you intend to encourage better compliance among residents?
Ikusika: We’re working closely with the legislative arm of the local government to introduce stricter bylaws and ensure consistent enforcement. Beyond that, we’re planning community sensitization programs and public hearings to educate people about their environmental responsibilities. We believe that real progress starts with awareness and shared commitment.
Correspondent: What is your long-term vision for environmental management in Ayesan and Odigbo at large?
Ikusika: My ultimate goal is to make our local government one of the cleanest and most livable areas in Ondo State. We want to build an environment that supports health, encourages tourism, and reflects the pride of our people. Clean surroundings are not just about aesthetics; they’re about dignity, safety, and sustainable living.
Correspondent: Thank you for your time and insights, Honorable.
Ikusika: Thank you for helping us share our vision with the public.
Meeting Highlights
During the strategic session earlier held in his office, Hon. Ikusika met with key environmental stakeholders, including the Head of Department (HOD) of Environment, representatives of environmental inspectors, and local government officials.
Among those present was Mrs. Bunmi Akinseyoju, Chairperson of Ifesowapo LCDA, who commended the Supervisor for Health for his proactive leadership and shared practical recommendations for strengthening environmental service delivery in the area.
Mrs Jumake Akinbiola, former Irele local Govt Chairperson, the HOD of Environment also expressed appreciation to Hon. Ikusika for convening the meeting, assuring him of the department’s support in implementing new waste management initiatives.
Hon. Ikusika, in his closing remarks, extended gratitude to Hon. Adegoroye, Chairman of Odigbo Local Government, for his continued support and leadership, pledging to align his office’s environmental agenda with the broader developmental goals of the council.
Moving Forward
The Supervisory reaffirmed his commitment to collaborative governance, emphasizing that environmental sustainability requires unity across all sectors, from policy to public participation.
“Our administration is open to partnership,” he said. “We will keep working with both government and private stakeholders to achieve lasting environmental progress that benefits everyone.”
With renewed determination and broad-based engagement, Odigbo Local Government under Hon. Ikusika’s supervision appears poised to set a new standard in community-driven environmental management in Ondo State.
