UBA Foundation tree planting initiative marks World Environment Day 2026 with sustainability drive across Lagos schools to promote climate action

The UBA Foundation has reinforced its environmental sustainability commitments with a tree-planting exercise at King’s College Lagos and CMS Grammar School Bariga, marking the commencement of its 2026 Tree Planting for Sustainability Initiative.

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The UBA Foundation tree planting initiative was held in commemoration of World Environment Day 2026 and forms part of broader efforts by the organisation to promote environmental consciousness among young people and encourage climate-positive action across Nigeria.

World Environment Day, coordinated annually by the United Nations, is observed on June 5 and remains a global platform for environmental awareness.

The 2026 theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” emphasises urgent collective action against climate change and environmental degradation.

Speaking during the exercise at CMS Grammar School, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, described the initiative as a long-term investment in environmental protection and youth development.

“We want young people to understand that the environment needs our collective support and protection,” Atta said.

“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.”

Now in its fourth year, the programme is designed to instil environmental responsibility in students by integrating sustainability practices into school communities and empowering them to act as environmental ambassadors.

Caption: L – R: Group Chief Risk Officer, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Awele Ajibola; Managing Director/CEO, UBA Foundation, Bola Atta; Director and Principal, King’s College, Magaji Zachariah, and King’s College Teacher, Bello A.A.; flanked by students and staff members of King’s College during the UBA Foundation Tree Planting Exercise held at the school in commemoration of World Environment Day 2026 at the weekend

Atta noted that selecting King’s College and CMS Grammar School was intentional due to their historical significance and capacity to sustain long-term environmental projects.

“These are iconic institutions with deep historical significance,” she said. “We wanted schools where these trees will be nurtured and allowed to flourish for generations to come.”

The initiative comes amid growing concerns over the rapid decline of green spaces in urban centres, particularly in Lagos, where expansion and development have significantly reduced vegetation cover.

UBA Group’s Chief Risk Officer, Awele Ajibola, said the initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles and climate risk awareness.

“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 stated.

School principals commended the programme, describing it as a practical reinforcement of classroom-based environmental education and a valuable tool for shaping student behaviour.

The initiative also includes sustainability clubs, green talks, and environmental awareness campaigns across UBA branches, as part of a broader month-long sustainability drive.

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UBA Foundation said the programme reflects its ongoing commitment to education, environmental protection, and community development across Africa.