The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has unveiled plans to host an international conference focused on tackling the impact of climate change on oil-producing coastal communities.

Chairman of the commission, Olabiyi Poroye, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ summit held in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Poroye said the global conference, slated for October, would bring together participants and development partners from across the world to address the environmental challenges confronting coastal communities.

He noted that the initiative was driven by the worsening effects of climate change, which continue to threaten livelihoods and infrastructure in oil-producing areas.

According to him, the commission is seeking international support, stressing that government efforts alone are insufficient to address the scale of ecological degradation in the region.

“The resources the government is putting in the mandate area alone cannot help us. What OSOPADEC is doing alone cannot help us. We need our friends, sympathisers, donors and development partners to come to the aid of these communities,” he said.

Poroye explained that the conference would also provide an opportunity to highlight the realities in the mandate areas and attract global attention for sustainable solutions.

He added that OSOPADEC remains committed to implementing long-term strategies aimed at mitigating environmental risks while improving the socio-economic wellbeing of residents.

Also speaking, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his Chief of Staff, Segun Omojuwa, underscored the need for collective action in addressing climate-related issues.

He emphasised that sustainable development can only be achieved when communities actively participate in and take ownership of projects.

Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the prolonged neglect experienced by many oil-producing communities but assured residents of his administration’s resolve to drive meaningful development through targeted interventions.

He, however, maintained that collaboration among government, development partners, and the private sector is essential to achieving lasting progress.

“This gathering represents more than just a meeting; it reflects our collective commitment to purposeful governance, inclusive development, and sustainable growth in our oil-producing communities.

“I commend the leadership of the commission for taking this bold step to engage critical stakeholders ahead of the 2026 budget. This approach reinforces our belief that development must be participatory, transparent, and accountable to the people it is meant to serve.

“As we look ahead to the 2026 budget, I assure you of our commitment to seamless implementation once it is finalised. That is part of the reason we are here today, to ensure your meaningful contributions are reflected.

“We will ensure that every allocation translates into tangible benefits for our people, while upholding accountability and transparency in the use of public funds,” he said.