By Ismaeel Aleem
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has appointed Professor Chinwe Obuaku-Igwe as the Director-General and Special Envoy on Climate Change and Renewable Energy.
The appointment was announced in a statement issued by Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, on Friday in Osogbo.
This move, according to the statement, reaffirms Osun’s dedication to advancing its pioneering role in climate governance and innovative renewable energy practices across Nigeria’s South-West region.
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Professor Obuaku-Igwe, a prominent figure in environmental policy, has been instrumental in crafting Osun’s robust climate governance structure.
Her contributions extend far beyond consultation, encompassing the execution of transformative programs that have tangibly benefited communities statewide.
Under her guidance, more than 2,000 youths and women have received specialised training in circular economy principles and waste-to-wealth strategies.
This initiative has spurred the establishment of over 350 green small and medium-sized enterprises, fostering economic empowerment and sustainability.
Key achievements highlighted in the statement include the launch of a state-of-the-art recycling hub in collaboration with the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA) and Waste Swap.
This facility processes substantial volumes of recyclables each month, generating over 400 formal employment opportunities and promoting eco-friendly waste management.
Further underscoring her impact, Obuaku-Igwe spearheaded the IMOLE Solar Lantern Campaign, which has successfully distributed upwards of 10,000 solar lanterns to pupils in rural schools.
The program not only slashes household energy expenses but also enhances educational access by providing reliable lighting for studying.
Additionally, she introduced an innovative electric bike pilot project aimed at curbing urban transportation emissions, while enabling operators to reduce fuel costs by as much as 30%.
The professor’s portfolio also encompasses the formulation of pivotal policy documents, including the Osun Climate Action Plan, Renewable Energy Policy, Climate Smart Investment portfolio, and Circular Economy Framework.
These efforts have positioned Osun as a frontrunner in sub-national climate strategies within South-West Nigeria
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Internationally, Obuaku-Igwe has represented the state at high-profile events such as COP28 in Azerbaijan and the Citizens Lobby Conference in Washington DC, where she successfully attracted climate-related investments to bolster Osun’s green agenda.
In her elevated capacity, Obuaku-Igwe will report directly to Adeleke.
Her responsibilities will include forging strategic partnerships with multilateral organisations, investors, and global climate networks.
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She will also oversee the integrated, cross-sectoral rollout of Osun’s Climate Action Plan to ensure comprehensive implementation.
The government stressed that this appointment augments the existing mandate of the Department of Climate Change within the Ministry of Environment.
