Abiodun Issues Three Executive Orders To Enhance Governance & Sustainability In Ogun State

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has issued three significant executive orders aimed at fostering sustainable development, environmental conservation, and responsible mining practices.

These orders, which established two new agencies and restrained monarchs from certain agreements, reflected the governor’s commitment to good governance and economic growth. The orders take immediate effect, as announced by Hon. Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy.

*Executive Order One: Establishment of Ogun State Mineral Resources Development Agency*

The first executive order establishes the Ogun State Mineral Resources Development Agency, underscoring the governor’s dedication to harnessing the state’s rich mineral resources responsibly. This agency will:

– Conduct geo-technical and geological surveys.
– Build relationships with host communities and local governments.
– Organize the solid minerals sector for the state’s benefit.
– Empower local investors and youth to participate in the mining sector.
– Promote solid mineral investments through prospection and exhibitions.
– Maintain a comprehensive data bank of the state’s mineral resources.
– Monitor mining sites to prevent environmental degradation.

The agency will be funded through fees, budgetary allocations, grants, and other legitimate contributions. This initiative ensures that the exploration and exploitation of Ogun State’s mineral resources are conducted responsibly and sustainably.

Governor Abiodun stated, “Ogun State has rich and vast deposits of mineral resources which must be explored responsibly, judiciously, and without detriment to the environmental ecosystem in mining areas.”

*Executive Order Two: Establishment of Ogun State Landscaping and Recreation Agency*

The second executive order creates the Ogun State Landscaping and Recreation Agency, reinforcing the administration’s Transformation Agenda focused on infrastructural renewal and environmental sustainability. The agency’s responsibilities include:

– Managing parks, gardens, and recreation centers.
– Regulating tree pruning and felling.
– Advising on and implementing greening programs.
– Ensuring environmental sanitation and security.
– Enumerating and tagging trees throughout the state.

Funded through budgetary allocations, service fees, grants, and other legitimate contributions, this agency aims to enhance the state’s beautification efforts, mitigate the effects of climate change, and improve the quality of life for residents.

Governor Abiodun highlighted the importance of this initiative by saying, “This greening initiative of the Ogun State Government is conceived not just to beautify the environment but also to mitigate the effects of climate change, save the environment, and protect our future.”

*Executive Order Three: Restraining Traditional Rulers from Entering into Memorandums of Understanding*

The third executive order addresses land management and mining activities by prohibiting traditional rulers from entering into agreements or Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) concerning these matters. This measure aims to:

– Prevent irregularities and ensure transparency in land management.
– Safeguard the state’s executive power in overseeing land use for mining and industrial activities.
– Ensure that all land acquisitions and explorations are conducted through approved, transparent processes.

Governor Abiodun emphasized, “The State observes the current trend in which miners and investors circumvent regulation and government oversight by encouraging traditional institutions to interfere with land management. This order is to ensure that acquisitions and explorations are made through standard and transparent processes.”

Violations of this order by traditional institutions will result in sanctions under the Obas and Chiefs Law and other relevant criminal statutes. Additionally, any entity entering into prohibited agreements with traditional institutions will face legal consequences under Section 61 of the Ogun State Criminal Law 2006, which prohibits interference with executive power.

*Significance of the Executive Orders*

These executive orders highlight Governor Abiodun’s strategic approach to governance and sustainable development in Ogun State. By establishing the Ogun State Mineral Resources Development Agency and the Ogun State Landscaping and Recreation Agency, the governor aims to organize and optimize the state’s mineral resources while promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing public spaces.

Restricting traditional rulers from entering into unauthorized agreements ensures that land management and mining activities adhere to regulatory standards, fostering a transparent and responsible approach to industrialization. These measures collectively demonstrate the governor’s dedication to good governance, economic development, and environmental stewardship in Ogun State.