COP31: Dr. Loko Unveils Ondo’s Five-Point Climate Strategy to Drive Global Investment in Antalya
The Ondo State Government has unveiled a five-point climate action agenda aimed at strengthening climate resilience, attracting international climate finance and investment, and promoting sustainable environmental development.
The Ondo State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Tob Loko, Ph.D., disclosed this during an interview with journalists in Antalya, Türkiye, on the sidelines of COP31.
He explained that the five-point agenda is derived from Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s OUR EASE Agenda and is designed to strengthen environmental governance, advance sustainable development and unlock new economic opportunities for the state.
According to the Commissioner, the first priority, Coastal Resilience and Climate Change Adaptation, focuses on tackling sea incursion, coastal erosion, flooding and other climate-related challenges, particularly in vulnerable coastal communities such as Ayetoro.
The second priority, Climate Finance, Carbon Markets and Green Investment, seeks to attract international climate funding, explore opportunities in carbon markets and encourage investments in environmentally sustainable projects across the state.
On the third priority, Pollution Control, Sustainable Waste Management and Circular Economy, he said the government plans to strengthen pollution prevention, improve waste management systems, promote recycling and transform waste into economic resources capable of generating employment and supporting sustainable livelihoods.
The fourth priority, Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Restoration, focuses on protecting forests, wetlands and mangroves, restoring degraded ecosystems and preserving natural carbon sinks that play critical roles in climate change mitigation.
The fifth priority, Climate Governance, Technology Transfer and Capacity Development, is aimed at strengthening institutional frameworks, facilitating access to modern environmental technologies and building the technical capacity required to implement effective climate policies and programmes.
Dr. Loko noted that the initiative reflects the Aiyedatiwa administration’s determination to transform Ondo State’s environmental challenges into opportunities for sustainable economic growth, green investment, job creation and long-term environmental security.
He added that the agenda would position the state to attract strategic international partnerships and climate investments while strengthening its participation in global climate action.
The Commissioner also expressed profound appreciation to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for approving the state’s participation at COP31. He commended the Governor’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to Ondo State’s development, noting that his support continues to create opportunities for the state to engage with the international community, attract strategic investments and advance its sustainable development objectives.