Union Bank of Nigeria has reinforced its commitment to environmental sustainability by mobilising employees to remove plastic waste from Lagos’ coastline as part of efforts to combat marine pollution and promote cleaner waterways.
The bank partnered with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, NCF to organise a beach cleanup at Alpha Community Beach, Lekki, under its 2026 Employee Volunteer Day initiative, powered by its Corporate Social Responsibility platform, UnionCares.
The exercise responded to the growing challenge of plastic pollution in Nigeria, where an estimated 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste are generated annually, with Lagos accounting for about 870,000 tonnes. Much of the waste eventually ends up in rivers, lagoons and the ocean, threatening marine ecosystems and coastal communities.
More than 50 Union Bank employee volunteers joined representatives of the NCF and students from Rodan High School, Ajah, to remove over 200 kilograms of waste from the beach. The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) provided logistical support and ensured the proper sorting and disposal of the collected waste.
Speaking at the event, Union Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Mrs. Olufunmilola Aluko, said environmental protection requires collective action from governments, businesses and citizens.
She noted that the cleanup reflects the bank’s commitment to promoting environmental stewardship and encouraging employees to contribute meaningfully to building cleaner and more sustainable communities.
According to her, initiatives such as the beach cleanup not only address the impact of climate change but also demonstrate how corporate organisations can support long-term environmental sustainability through community engagement and partnerships.
The bank said it will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders on programmes that promote environmental conservation and sustainable development across Nigeria.