Jonathan Olanlokun is a local superhero in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria. He is not a traditional superhero with superpowers, but his determination to make a difference in his community is what makes him one. In Nigeria, waste management is a significant challenge, especially in urban areas, where adequate infrastructure and resources for waste collection and disposal are lacking. Olanlokun dresses as Spiderman and goes out litter picking to draw attention to the problem of litter on the streets. He started his work as an environmental activist in 2004 and has been doing it ever since. Despite many people not taking him seriously, Olanlokun kept doing his work, but he noticed positive results when he started wearing the Spiderman costume in 2021, and people started taking him seriously.
Olanlokun's work is setting an example for others and the government to take action in waste management. Many local authorities struggle to provide basic waste management services, leading to uncollected rubbish piling up in streets, open spaces, and drainage channels. Olanlokun's work has gone down well with locals, who appreciate his efforts to keep their surroundings clean. Waste management is a significant issue globally, and every year, about 11.2 billion tons of solid waste are gathered worldwide, presenting significant threats to ecosystems and humans while also accounting for about 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
In conclusion, Olanlokun's efforts as a local superhero to clean up the streets and draw attention to the problem of litter in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria, are commendable. It is essential to take action in waste management, and Olanlokun's work is setting an example for others and the government to follow.