World Environment Day serves as a timely reminder that climate change is no longer a distant concern, but a present reality affecting communities, livelihoods, and the future. It also reinforces the message that environmental protection begins with everyday choices and practical actions that promote a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable world.
In partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Basic & Secondary Education, VCDF and Sterling Oil launched the Grow Green initiative to promote tree planting and nurturing among students in Lagos.
The Grow Green initiative supports environmental education, climate awareness, and sustainable development priorities in Lagos State. Thus far, 5,500 tree saplings have been planted on 153 schools as part of 10,000 total tree planting drive across 6 educational districts in Lagos.
In this vein, Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), with support from Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), partnered with the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the Waste Management Society of Nigeria (WAMASON) to commemorate World Environment Day 2026.
The school-based activities were held on June 27, 2026, extending the message of World Environment Day beyond awareness into hands-on learning and behaviour change. Activities promoted climate literacy and practical environmental action among students in Lagos State.
202 students from Eva Adelaja Girls Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, Bariga, as well as Government Model Junior and Senior Colleges, Owutu, Ikorodu, 20 school teachers, 58 SEEPCO volunteers and community leaders participated. 336 tree saplings were planted in the 2 schools.
Participants were trained on waste segregation and shown how to separate waste into six categories: biodegradable, recyclable, hazardous, sanitary, electronic, and residual waste. This helped them understand how proper waste separation supports cleaner school grounds and healthier communities.
Participants were also introduced to composting processes and methods, with a focus on how biodegradable waste such as food remains, leaves, and other organic materials can be converted into compost for soil enrichment and improved plant growth. Students were encouraged to view themselves as young environmental advocates with the influence to shape better habits in their schools, homes, and communities at large.
Stakeholders stressed that climate action is a shared responsibility, and it contributes to a healthier environment. Samuel Eruwa, an Ikorodu community leader, said. ‘‘This is laudable because it speaks to human wellbeing. When the environment is neglected, human life is affected. We appreciate VCDF and the Lagos State Ministry of Education.”
For the students, the exercise created a personal connection with environmental responsibility. Ayomide Modat, a senior student, said: “From tomorrow, I will water my tree every morning and evening. I will also share what I’ve learned with my family and juniors. Even after I graduate, I will continue to encourage others to plant trees.”
A SEEPCO volunteer also reflected on the emotional value of tree planting, saying:
I chose to dedicate the tree I planted to my late parents, my sister, and my brother-in-law. It was a deeply emotional moment for me. Knowing that these trees will continue to grow and give life makes me feel that their memory lives on through them. This experience meant far more to me than simply planting a tree, it became a lasting tribute to the people I love and miss.”
As Lagos continues to grow, initiatives that promote environmental awareness and responsible waste management contribute to ongoing efforts to build a cleaner and more sustainable urban environment. Every tree planted, every waste item properly sorted, and every student trained represents an investment in cleaner air, cooler spaces, healthier schools, and stronger communities.
VCDF reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging SEEPCO’s corporate social responsibility efforts to promote environmental stewardship, and strengthen climate literacy in collaboration with government institutions, environmental stakeholders, schools, and communities across Nigeria.