By Abbas Nazil
In celebration of the 2025 World Environment Day, the Ondo State Chapter of the National Council of Muslim Youth Organizations (NACOMYO) launched a robust sensitization campaign advocating for sustainable environmental practices and heightened awareness about plastic pollution and climate change.
The initiative, which aligns with this year’s global theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” underscores the organization’s commitment to promoting eco-conscious living among Nigerians, particularly the youth.
Speaking during the Council’s 2025 Commemorative Sessions, the Ondo State Coordinator of NACOMYO, Ambassador Engineer Ogunmola Muhammed, highlighted the urgency of the environmental crisis and the importance of the annual World Environment Day observance.
He described the day as a United Nations-sanctioned platform dedicated to drawing attention to the escalating threats facing the planet and urging collective global action for environmental preservation.
Ogunmola stressed that plastic waste remains one of the most pressing environmental challenges, posing severe risks to ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.
He urged citizens to adopt responsible consumption habits, reuse items when possible, and dispose of plastic waste appropriately.
“Our campaign is not just about raising awareness; it is about changing attitudes. Let us consume only what we need, embrace reuse, and develop a genuine love for the environment,” he stated.
Warning of the broader implications of poor environmental practices, Ogunmola pointed out that such behaviors are major contributors to climate change—a global menace that continues to intensify.
He noted the rising levels of greenhouse gas emissions and global temperatures, emphasizing the destructive consequences that include flooding, wildfires, disease outbreaks, pest invasions, food insecurity, poverty, and growing instability.
“Climate change is real and accelerating. Our current actions are pushing the planet towards irreversible damage.
We must act decisively and immediately,” he declared.
The NACOMYO coordinator appealed for sincere and united efforts from individuals, organizations, and government bodies at all levels to implement lasting and sustainable environmental solutions.
He emphasized that addressing climate change is not only essential for achieving the goals of this year’s World Environment Day but also crucial for safeguarding the future of humanity.
Drawing from Islamic teachings, Ogunmola invoked the stories of Prophets Yusuf (A.S), Nuh (A.S), and Musa (A.S), illustrating how environmental stewardship is deeply embedded in Islamic history and scripture.
He highlighted Prophet Yusuf’s strategic planning during years of abundance to mitigate the effects of future drought as a relevant model for modern-day climate resilience.
“These Qur’anic accounts are not merely spiritual allegories—they are practical lessons. We must ask ourselves: What must we build today to ensure survival in tomorrow’s climate reality?” he said.
As the leading body for Muslim youth in the state, NACOMYO concluded the event with a heartfelt appeal to all Nigerians—individuals, communities, civil society groups, and all tiers of government—to take ownership of the environment and regard climate action not just as a civic responsibility, but also as a moral and spiritual calling.
The council encouraged the public to reconnect with nature, adopt environmentally friendly habits, and commit to protecting the Earth for current and future generations.