In commemoration of World Environment Day 2026, students from 20 selected schools across Enugu and Nsukka in Enugu State, Southeast Nigeria, participated in a series of tree-planting and environmental awareness activities designed to promote climate action, environmental sustainability, and responsible stewardship of natural resources.
The students are the current beneficiaries of the pilot phase of the ongoing climate education campaign in Enugu State titled “Rooted in Action Growing Green Generation,” an initiative spearheaded by the Office of the Senior Adviser to the Governor of Enugu State on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady of Enugu State, the Enugu State Ministry of Education and Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, with funding support from UNICEF Enugu Field Office.
The campaign aligns with the 2026 World Environment Day theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For our Future” which focuses on urgent climate action, emphasising the role of nature-based solutions and healthy ecosystems in climate resilience.
The programme also reflects the UNFCCC’s Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) agenda, which seeks to empower youth engagement through climate education and public participation, inspiring young people to adopt environmentally responsible behaviours and become advocates for sustainable practices within their schools, homes, and communities.
A major highlight of the event was the planting of ornamental and economic trees within the school premises, which will serve as a practical demonstration of climate action and a constant reminder of the importance of environmental restoration for sustainable growth and economic development.
Trees play a critical role in combating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, improving air quality, conserving biodiversity, preventing soil erosion, regulating local temperatures, and enhancing the resilience of communities to environmental shocks.
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, Senior Adviser to the Enugu State Governor on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development, emphasised that environmental sustainability remains a key component of the development agenda of the administration of Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.
Represented by Mr. Elochukwu Anieze, Prof. Okereke said, “Empowering young people with climate knowledge and engaging them in practical environmental activities is one of the most effective ways to build a generation that is environmentally conscious, innovative, and committed to sustainable development. Our goal is to nurture young champions who will not only understand the urgency of climate action but also lead it in their schools, communities, and beyond.”
The Office of the First Lady of Enugu State’s collaboration further reaffirmed its commitment to initiatives that promote environmental protection, youth development, and community resilience.
The programme highlighted the importance of nurturing environmental responsibility among students, recognising them as future leaders and critical stakeholders in the fight against climate change.
The Enugu State Ministry of Environment and Climate Change also underscored the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges in its remark.
The Ministry encouraged students to serve as ambassadors of environmental sustainability by promoting proper waste management, reducing plastic use, protecting natural resources, and supporting tree-planting efforts in their communities.
During the programme, students participated in interactive sessions on climate change, environmental conservation, sustainable lifestyles, and the importance of protecting ecosystems.
The conversations reinforced the message that every individual has a role to play in safeguarding the environment, and that small actions, when multiplied across communities, can lead to significant and lasting impact.
The organisers called for sustained engagement beyond World Environment Day, stressing that environmental protection is a continuous responsibility that requires the collective efforts of government, development partners, educational institutions, communities, and citizens.
