Africa
ENVIRONMENTAL advocates, financial institutions and academics on Friday called for increased investment in nature and youth-led initiatives to tackle climate change, plastic pollution and unemployment in Nigeria.
The call was made at the Green Print Project 2.0 Environmental Fair, organised by Jawura Environmental Services Ltd. to mark the 2026 World Environment Day in Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Mrs Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer of Union Bank of Nigeria, said environmental sustainability should be seen as an investment, not a cost.
Delivering a keynote address titled ‘Investing in Nature for Tomorrow’, Aluko said nature remained the foundation of economic growth, public health and community wellbeing.
She said Lagos continued to face major environmental challenges, particularly plastic pollution, noting that about 34 kilogrammes of plastic waste per person enters waterways annually.
Aluko said Nigeria generated about 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste yearly, with more than 88 per cent not recycled.
“There is no economy without ecology. The returns on investments in nature will ultimately be enjoyed by future generations.
“The responsibility to act now rests with all of us,” Aluko said.
She said Union Bank continued to promote sustainability through partnerships with conservation groups, climate initiatives and educational programmes for young people.
According to her, the bank is developing a climate strategy aligned with Nigeria’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.
She added that sustainability considerations were being integrated into the bank’s operations, governance framework and financing decisions.
Aluko highlighted the potential of the circular economy and renewable energy sector in addressing youth unemployment.
She said waste management initiatives in Lagos had already created about 25,000 green jobs.
She added that the global circular economy market could generate millions of jobs in the years ahead.
According to her, Nigeria’s youthful population presents a significant opportunity for green innovation and economic growth.
“The young entrepreneurs turning waste into wealth are not merely pursuing ideas.
“They are participating in one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world and deserve support from government, businesses and financial institutions,” she said.
Aluko called for stronger collaboration among governments, regulators, businesses, communities and civil society groups to address climate challenges effectively.
Earlier, Jawura Environmental Services Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, Mr Tosin Rowland-Osibanjo, described environmental stewardship as vital to sustainable development.
He said the 2026 World Environment Day theme, ‘Urbanisation and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future’, reflected realities facing Lagos and other growing cities.
Rowland-Osibanjo said rapid urbanisation, climate change and environmental degradation required urgent action from all stakeholders.
“We are here to demonstrate that we have the power to change the current trajectory through collective action and environmental responsibility,” he said.
Also speaking, Prof. David Esezobur of the University of Lagos stressed the need for greater environmental consciousness among citizens.
Esezobur, a Professor of Sustainable Extractive Methodology and Advanced Material Processing, described environmental sustainability as a lifestyle for individuals, communities and governments.
He said environmental challenges were closely linked to public health, education and economic development.
According to him, environmental awareness campaigns and tree-planting programmes are essential to building a sustainable future.
“The environment belongs to us and to future generations. Everyone, from children to adults and government officials, has a role in protecting it,” he said.
He urged young people to become ambassadors of environmental sustainability by promoting responsible practices in homes, schools and communities.
Esezobur commended the organisers for engaging students and young people in environmental activities.
He said tree-planting initiatives would help mitigate climate change and improve public health through lower carbon emissions and increased oxygen production.
He called for greater participation by government agencies and the expansion of environmental education programmes to tertiary institutions.
The event attracted students, National Youth Service Corps members, environmental practitioners, community leaders, government officials and exhibitors showcasing recycling and sustainability innovations. (NAN)
F.O
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