Stakeholders in Nigeria’s environmental and financial sectors have called for stronger collaboration in addressing climate change, promoting conservation and empowering young people to drive sustainable development.
The call was made during a World Environment Day symposium organised by Union Bank of Nigeria in partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos.
The event, held under the theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” brought together business leaders, environmental advocates, policymakers, students and sustainability stakeholders to discuss practical solutions to climate-related challenges and environmental degradation.
Participants stressed that tackling climate change requires collective action and stronger partnerships among governments, businesses, civil society organisations and communities.
Delivering a goodwill message, Union Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Olufunmilola Aluko, said businesses must move beyond rhetoric and demonstrate tangible commitment to environmental sustainability.
According to her, financial institutions have a critical role to play in directing investments towards sustainable and environmentally responsible projects.
“As a bank that has been part of Nigeria’s story for over a century, Union Bank recognises that sustainable development and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand. We believe businesses have a role to play not only in what they say, but also in what they do,” she said.
Aluko noted that decisions regarding financing and investments significantly influence the type of economy a nation develops, adding that Union Bank remains committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to sustainable growth and environmental protection.
She stressed that the financial sector serves as a powerful catalyst in the transition to a low-carbon economy through strategic allocation of capital and support for green investments.
In his keynote address, Director-General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, Joseph Daniel Onoja, described environmental conservation as essential to human survival.
“Nature has placed all the models that we need to be able to live well in it. When we talk about nature conservation or environmental conservation, we’re saying human conservation because nature, Mother Earth, will always take care of herself,” he said.
Onoja warned that humanity’s future depends on its ability to protect the environment and utilise natural resources responsibly.
A major highlight of the symposium was a panel session involving secondary school students from Lagos and other parts of the country, who brought youthful perspectives to the climate conversation.
The students advocated increased investment in renewable energy, environmentally friendly technologies and sustainable production practices.
They also showcased innovative projects that convert waste materials into useful products such as interior décor items and clean energy solutions, demonstrating the role of innovation in addressing environmental challenges.
Observers described the presentations as evidence of the growing awareness among young Nigerians about climate change and sustainability issues.
Stakeholders at the event agreed that stronger collaboration between the private sector, government institutions and environmental organisations will be crucial in addressing the growing impacts of climate change and securing a sustainable future for Nigeria.
