The commendation was made at the EcoschoolsNG closeout event organised by FABE foundation on Thursday in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the EcoschoolsNG project in partnership with the ACT Foundation promotes environmental sustainability awareness through education and hands-on workshops in schools.
It is an annual school programme that helps rural/urban low-income public and private schools imbibe the principles of environmental sustainability as an integral part of school life using a set of simple instructional structures that will address environmental issues.
While commending the activities of FABE foundation, Mrs Titilayo Oshodi, the Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Climate change and Circular Economy, described the project as a beacon of hope for promoting sustainability.
“As we gather to celebrate a monumental achievement, the Closeout of FABE foundation’s Ecoschools Nigeria project for the year 2023.
“We are proud of the strides made by FABE foundation and her partners in fostering environmental consciousness or sustainability within our educational institutions
“Today, we showcase not just a documentary but a testament to the power of collective action, and the transformative impact of education.
“The EcoschoolsNG Project 2023 is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a greener more resilient future for Lagos and Nigeria and in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s waste strategy.
“Through this project, schools have been empowered across the state to become hubs of sustainability where students are not just learners, but agents of change from adopting eco- friendly practices to implementing innovative recycling,” Oshodi said.
On her part, Mrs Mobolaji Tayo-Badru, representative of Dr Gaji Tajudeen, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, said the foundation plays a pivotal role in catching them young.
“Through dedication, innovation and a shared commitment to the sustainability of our planet, the EcoschoolsNG Project by FABE foundation have become a beacon of hope and inspiration and collective quest for a sustainable future.
“The FABE foundation has made a remarkable strides in promoting consciousness, implementing green policies and nurturing eco-friendly mind-set in our educational institutions.
“FABE foundation is contributing immensely to the government’s efforts towards integrating sustainability into every aspect of the society.
“The foundation has inspired a new generation of eco-conscious leaders who understand the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of preserving our environment for future generations.
“From implementing waste reduction and promoting energy efficiency, to educating our youths on the importance of conservation, the EcoschoolsNG project has instilled a sense of responsibility and care for the environment, in the heart of our future leaders,” Tayo-Badru said.
Mrs Temitope Okunnu, Founder FABE foundation, reiterated the stance of the foundation in promoting sustainability via its numerous projects.
“Over the last 16 years, we have mobilised both young and old people in low-income communities and schools in environmental education and sustainability particularly mentoring young girls in schools, in exemplary ways to live a sustainable lifestyle.
“Notably, we have created Africa’s first-ever Zero-Waste Upcycled EcoGarden specifically made from 10 different kinds of waste materials with no chemicals or emissions deliberately to serve as a learning lab.
“We aim to promote and teach skills in recycling, upcycling, gardening, and compositing to improve environmental sustainability consciousness and attitudinal change of Nigerians.
“Through programmes like the EcoSchoolsNG, Tidy Nigeria, and WasteWise, we have trained over 50,000 young people and women in identifying, exploring, and facilitating sustainable eco-solutions to problems caused by the impacts of climate change.
“We teach students the science, art, craft, and leadership of environmental sustainability, which is at the heart of our vision to develop an eco-conscious generation across Africa.
“Additionally, we have recovered over 600 tonnes of plastic waste, promoting climate action and circular economy principles, helping schools and communities become environmentally conscious, financially independent, and sustainable with skills,” Okunnu said.
The partner of FABE foundation, Aspire Coronation Trust (ACT) Foundation, represented by Mr Ugochukwu Nwosu, also commended efforts of the foundation and hoped for a more sustainable Nigeria in the future.
“We congratulate FABE foundation for its efforts so far in promoting environmental sustainability from the schools.
“We hope for a more sustainable Nigeria in the future with the rise of Eco ambassadors in our schools, Nwosu said.
LASG lauds FABE foundation for promoting environmental sustainability
