By Rasheeda Hamidu
The Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT UBEB) and the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) have launched a school greening and tree planting campaign in Abuja to promote environmental sustainability and climate awareness among pupils through practical conservation activities.
The campaign was inaugurated on Monday in Abuja by FCT UBEB and UBEC as part of efforts to integrate environmental education into basic schools and encourage climate-conscious behaviour among learners, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
FCT UBEB Chairman, Dr Alhassan Sule, said the initiative was designed to instil environmental responsibility in pupils and create greener school environments. He stated that, “Tree planting is not only about beautifying our schools; it is about teaching our children the importance of protecting the environment and ensuring a sustainable future.”
NatureNews notes that tree planting is widely recognised as a climate adaptation and mitigation measure that helps improve air quality, reduce heat stress and restore degraded ecosystems.
According to FCT UBEB, participating schools will establish green spaces and plant trees within their premises as part of broader environmental education activities aimed at promoting sustainability and ecological stewardship among young learners.
The board explained that the campaign aligns with national and global efforts to strengthen environmental awareness in schools and encourage practical action on climate and environmental challenges.
Sule further explained that the programme would help pupils develop lifelong environmental values and strengthen their understanding of conservation.
He stated that schools have a critical role in shaping responsible citizens who appreciate the importance of protecting natural resources.
According to UBEC, the greening initiative complements existing environmental education programmes designed to promote sustainable development and climate resilience in basic education institutions across Nigeria.
The commission reported that integrating environmental activities into school programmes can help build awareness among younger generations and encourage community participation in environmental protection efforts.
NatureNews tracks school-based environmental education, afforestation initiatives and climate awareness programmes as part of its coverage of sustainability, ecosystem restoration and climate resilience across Nigeria and Africa.
