Oluremi Tinubu Launches National Environment Club, Urges Nigerian Youth to “Go Green Today for a Greener Tomorrow”
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on young Nigerians to take the lead in driving environmental sustainability across the country as she officially launched the National Environment Club and Environment Society, coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Environment.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja, the First Lady praised the creativity and passion of Nigerian students, describing them as the “true champions of climate action”. She highlighted a stirring poem by Esther Abraham, an SS3 student of Government Senior Secondary School, Mabushi, whose emotional performance she said reflected deep love for nature.
“From Esther, I see passion and love. When she recited, I saw a young woman in love with the environment—like a message of love,” Senator Tinubu said. “I look forward to working with all of you in the future, by the grace of God.”
She presented membership kits—comprising handbooks, cards and practical tools—to selected students, stressing that environmental commitment must begin with hands-on action.
“We are giving you your membership card, handbook and working tools—to the glory of God and the benefit of humanity,” she said.
Senator Tinubu, who trained as a biologist, shared that her affinity for plants and her previous work teaching environmental sanitation inspired her dedication to environmental advocacy.
“Young people are the right ambassadors to drive this programme we launch today,” she declared.
“Go Green Today for a Greener Tomorrow” — A National Call to Action
The First Lady said the newly launched Environment Club (for primary and secondary schools) and Environment Society (for tertiary institutions) are designed to develop a new generation of environmentally responsible Nigerians.
The club structures will engage students in:
- School and community clean-up campaigns
- Recycling drives
- Tree planting initiatives
- Anti-plastic advocacy
- Climate awareness and environmental education
Students in tertiary institutions will focus on shoreline clean-ups, reforestation, sustainability advocacy, and environmental research.
Her rallying motto, “Go Green Today for a Greener Tomorrow,” echoed throughout the event, symbolizing Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable development and youth-led climate action.
The First Lady urged state governments, commissioners, and governors’ wives to support the initiative.
“Let soft power support them. You are the key champions of this cause. Be bold and lead with purpose. The future is green if we make it so.”
Nigeria Faces Urgent Environmental Threats – Minister of Environment
The Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal, stressed the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s growing environmental challenges.
“Nigeria faces a severe waste management crisis due to inadequate infrastructure, weak enforcement, and poor public attitude toward waste disposal,” he said.
“Low awareness and lack of structured education worsen the challenge. This initiative will drive awareness, community projects, and groom young leaders for Africa’s waste goals.”
He emphasized that youth-led environmental education is essential for national transformation.
UNDP Reaffirms Support for Nigeria’s Green Agenda
The UNDP Resident Representative, Elsie Attafuah, reaffirmed the global community’s commitment to Nigeria’s environmental and climate resilience efforts. She noted that empowering young people is one of the most effective strategies for building long-term sustainability.
The Environment Club and Environment Society are expected to be launched across all 36 states and the FCT in the coming months.
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