First Lady launches environment club

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

At the national launch of the Environment Club and Environment Society, on Friday, at the State House, Abuja, the First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, emphatically called on Nigerian youth to lead the country’s crusade for environmental sustainability.

Opening with a warm tribute to the inspiring contributions of young voices, the First Lady singled out Esther Abraham, a Senior Secondary 3 student from Government Senior Secondary School, Mabushi, for her moving poem on the environment.

“From Esther, I see the passion and the love. When she recited, I saw a woman in love with the environment. It was like a message of love,” Mrs. Tinubu said. “I look forward to working with you all in the future, by the grace of God.”

She unveiled membership kits to selected representatives of both clubs and highlighted the importance of practical tools for their mission, stating: “We are going to give you your membership card, a handbook and your working tools—to the glory of God and the benefit of humanity.”

The First Lady reflected on her own lifelong connection to nature, sharing, “I am a biologist professionally. I studied educational biology, and my love for plants inspired me in my studies. Teaching environmental sanitation in Lagos was part of my early work, and I believe young people are the right ambassadors to drive this programme we launch today.”

She outlined the initiative’s goals: “The Environment Club and The Environment Society will develop young Nigerians committed to environmental preservation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource use. These clubs cultivate a national mindset prioritising ecological responsibility, alternative livelihoods, and entrepreneurship opportunities for our youth.”

Her rallying motto resonated throughout the hall: “Go Green Today for a Greener Tomorrow captures the spirit of sustainability and collective responsibility.”