Hundreds of students in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt joined environmental campaigns to mark World Environment Day 2026, participating in tree-planting exercises, plastic clean-up projects, and sustainability awareness programmes.

The initiative, organised by Hope Aglow Charity Foundation, United Nations Association of Nigeria, and Bingham University, resulted in the planting of more than 500 trees and the distribution of over 300 reusable water bottles aimed at reducing plastic waste.

Held under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” the programme aligned with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, combining environmental education with practical climate action.

Leading activities in Lagos, Cynthia Amaka Obiorah encouraged students participating in the “One Student, One Tree” campaign to view environmental protection as a personal responsibility. She stressed that trees play a crucial role in combating erosion, reducing heat, and improving air quality.

In Port Harcourt, students focused on environmental challenges affecting the Niger Delta, particularly pollution and its impact on local livelihoods. Participants were appointed environmental ambassadors, while indigenous tree seedlings were planted to promote conservation efforts.

At Bingham University in Abuja, students and staff carried out a campus clean-up exercise and planted shade trees as part of a “Think Green Before You Act” campaign promoting energy efficiency and reduced plastic consumption.

The activities concluded with an international webinar featuring climate and technology experts, including Rui Dai and Tong Xu, who discussed how innovation and artificial intelligence can support climate action.

Organisers said the programme was designed not only to raise awareness but also to empower young people to become active participants in protecting the environment and building a more sustainable future.