
…Makinde’s Administration Earns Recognition For Policy Reforms, Visibility, And Institutional Resilience
Oyo State has recorded a remarkable leap in Nigeria’s 2025 Sub-National Climate Governance Performance Rating and Ranking, rising from the 34th position in 2024 to 7th place with an impressive score of 250 points — a clear reflection of the state’s growing commitment to climate action and sustainable development.
The second edition of the national assessment, conducted by the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP) in collaboration with the Federal Government through the Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment, evaluated the performance of all 36 states across five key governance indicators: Climate governance and administrative structure; Existence of climate policy and action plan; Implementation of climate-related projects; Integration of climate finance in state budgets; and Online visibility of state climate activities.
Oyo State was recognized among twelve (12) states including: Lagos, Borno, and Kaduna that demonstrated leadership in online visibility and budgetary provisions for green bonds, while also featuring among eleven (11) states that organized capacity-building programmes for climate change officers during the past year. These trainings covered areas such as climate finance, greenhouse gas inventory, and gender-responsive climate actions.
Additionally, Oyo was listed among thirteen (13) states currently developing a comprehensive state climate policy, reaffirming its dedication to strengthening environmental sustainability and resilience.
Under the visionary leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, Oyo State has pursued deliberate strategies to integrate climate considerations into its broader development agenda. During the tenure of Hon. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, former Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, the state laid strong foundations through key initiatives such as: The establishment of the Oyo State Climate Council (awaiting inauguration); The development of the State Climate Action Plan (CAP) as a roadmap for mitigation and adaptation; and Continued implementation of the Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP) which is one of the Nigeria’s most comprehensive flood resilience projects.
These efforts have positioned Oyo as one of Nigeria’s emerging leaders in subnational climate governance.
Oyo State also achieved a historic milestone with its first-ever appearance at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, marking its entry onto the international climate stage. The state’s participation underscored its readiness to engage in global dialogues on subnational climate finance, adaptation, and collaborative governance which was one of the critical visibility indicators assessed in the ranking.
Building on these achievements, the current Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Barr. Temilolu Seun Ashamu, has sustained and deepened these efforts to ensure that Oyo’s climate policies remain active, inclusive, and implementation-driven.
The improved ranking not only signifies continuity of leadership but also underscores the synergy between government agencies, development partners, and local actors working collectively toward climate resilience in the state.
As the world prepares for COP30 in Brazil, Oyo State’s progress stands as a model for how subnational governments can lead on climate governance by institutionalizing reforms, fostering partnerships, and maintaining visibility on the global stage.
With sustained leadership and investment, Oyo is well on course to consolidate its place among Nigeria’s top-performing states in environmental sustainability and climate governance.