The UBA Foundation tree planting initiative took center stage during World Environment Day 2026 as the organisation reinforced its commitment to environmental sustainability in Lagos. The initiative focused on selected schools across the city, aiming to inspire young people to embrace climate-conscious behaviour and long-term environmental responsibility.
Through this programme, the UBA Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of United Bank for Africa Group, continues to promote sustainability education. The exercise also highlights the importance of restoring green spaces in rapidly urbanising cities like Lagos.
Tree Planting Exercise in Iconic Lagos Schools
As part of the 2026 World Environment Day celebration, the UBA Foundation carried out a tree-planting exercise at two historic institutions: King’s College, Lagos, and CMS Grammar School, Bariga.
The activity officially launched the Foundation’s 2026 Tree Planting for Sustainability Initiative. This programme is currently being implemented in selected schools across Nigeria. Its goal is to build environmental awareness among students and encourage active participation in climate protection efforts.
World Environment Day is observed annually on June 5 under the coordination of the United Nations. The 2026 theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” emphasises global cooperation in addressing climate change and environmental degradation.
During the exercise at CMS Grammar School, Managing Director and CEO of UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, described the initiative as a long-term investment in future generations. She stressed that environmental protection requires collective responsibility and consistent action.
According to her, the programme is designed to help students understand the importance of sustainability from an early age. She added that such awareness can shape healthier communities and a more secure future.
The tree planting exercise is part of the wider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy of the UBA Group.
Building Environmental Responsibility in Students
Now in its fourth year, the UBA Foundation tree planting initiative has grown into a structured sustainability programme. It integrates environmental education into school activities and encourages students to act as environmental ambassadors.
Bola Atta explained that the selection of King’s College and CMS Grammar School was intentional. Both institutions have strong historical backgrounds and a legacy of producing leaders in Nigeria.
CMS Grammar School is recognised as the country’s oldest secondary school. King’s College has also educated students for more than a century. According to Atta, these schools were chosen to ensure the trees planted today are preserved for future generations.
She also highlighted the growing challenge of environmental degradation caused by urban expansion. Over time, many green spaces in Nigerian cities have disappeared due to development pressures.
However, she emphasised that it is still possible to reverse this trend. Through initiatives like this, communities can restore lost greenery and promote environmental balance.
UBA’s Commitment to Climate Action and ESG Goals
The tree planting exercise is part of the wider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy of the UBA Group. The institution continues to integrate sustainability into its corporate operations and community programmes.
Group Chief Risk Officer of UBA, Awele Ajibola, also spoke during the event. She highlighted the importance of proactive environmental action in addressing climate risks.
She noted that climate change poses serious challenges to societies and economies. Therefore, financial institutions must play an active role in promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Ajibola added that the UBA Foundation tree planting initiative demonstrates the Group’s dedication to positive environmental impact. It also reflects its commitment to supporting the communities where it operates.
Expanding Environmental Awareness Beyond Tree Planting
Beyond planting trees, the Foundation also engaged students in interactive sessions on environmental stewardship. These sessions focused on practical habits such as proper waste management, recycling, water conservation, and energy efficiency.
In addition, UBA Foundation is rolling out several other activities to mark World Environment Day 2026. These include green awareness campaigns across branches, sustainability clubs in schools, and a month-long environmental challenge to promote eco-friendly behaviour.
The Foundation has also joined the Finance Taskforce for Plastic Action in Nigeria. This move strengthens its commitment to tackling plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices in the financial sector.
School principals who participated in the programme praised the initiative. The Principal of CMS Grammar School, Revd. Jacob Ayokunle Ogunyinka, described it as a practical extension of classroom learning. He noted that students better understand environmental protection when they actively participate in it.
Similarly, the Principal of King’s College, Magaji Zachariah, appreciated the Foundation’s efforts. He said the programme would leave a lasting impact on students and encourage long-term environmental awareness.
The UBA Foundation tree planting initiative demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and youth development. By combining education with practical action, the programme helps shape environmentally responsible future leaders.
As Lagos continues to expand, initiatives like this remain essential for restoring green spaces and promoting climate resilience. Ultimately, the Foundation’s efforts show that small actions today can create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
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