By Francis Ajuonuma
The UBA Foundation on Friday launched a new environmental sustainability campaign with tree-planting exercises at King’s College, Lagos, and CMS Grammar School, Bariga, as part of activities marking World Environment Day 2026.
The initiative, which also signalled the commencement of the Foundation’s 2026 Tree Planting for Sustainability Initiative, aims to promote environmental consciousness and climate-positive actions among young Nigerians.
Speaking during the exercise at CMS Grammar School, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, said the programme was designed to encourage students to take responsibility for protecting the environment.
“We want young people to understand that the environment needs our collective support and protection. Through initiatives like this, we are encouraging the next generation to embrace sustainable practices that will help create healthier communities and a better future for all,” she said.
Atta said the selection of King’s College and CMS Grammar School was deliberate because of their historical significance and long-standing educational legacies.
“These are iconic institutions with deep historical significance. CMS Grammar School is Nigeria’s oldest secondary school, while King’s College has been shaping leaders for more than a century. We wanted schools where these trees will be nurtured and allowed to flourish for generations to come,” she stated.
She expressed concern over the steady reduction of green spaces in many urban centres due to rapid development and environmental neglect.
“Over the years, development has often taken precedence over environmental preservation, leading to the loss of many trees and green areas. However, there is no better time than now to begin restoring our environment and making a lasting impact,” Atta added.
The exercise formed part of activities lined up by the UBA Group to commemorate this year’s World Environment Day themed, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”
UBA’s Group Chief Risk Officer, Awele Ajibola, said climate change posed serious risks that required urgent and coordinated action.
“At UBA, initiatives like this demonstrate our commitment to the environment and the communities we serve. Climate change presents real and growing risks, and as a responsible financial institution, we recognise our role in driving positive environmental action and sustainable development,” Ajibola said.
Principal of CMS Grammar School, Revd. Jacob Ayokunle Ogunyinka, described the initiative as a practical reinforcement of environmental education.
“Our students learn about the importance of trees and environmental conservation in the classroom. Seeing these principles demonstrated in practice deepens their understanding and inspires greater responsibility towards protecting the environment,” he said.
The programme also featured awareness sessions on recycling, waste management, water conservation and energy efficiency for participating students.
Other activities organised by the bank to mark World Environment Day include sustainability clubs in schools, Green Talk sessions with customers, environmental awareness campaigns and a month-long Green Challenge promoting environmentally responsible behaviour.
