By Sarah NEGEDU
The Federal Capital Territory Administration has launched a youth-led campaign to tackle air pollution and promote environmental sustainability across schools and communities in Abuja.
The initiative, driven by the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, seeks to empower young persons, particularly students in secondary and tertiary institutions, to champion climate-friendly practices under the “Breathe Clean Air Abuja” project.
The Mandate Secretary of the FCTA Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, while declaring the advocacy campaign open on Monday, said the Secretariat is collaborating with Rotaract Clubs in the city, including those of Maitama, Apo FCT, and Wuse II, as well as other stakeholders, to raise awareness about the dangers of air pollution and promote clean energy adoption.
Fasawe, in a statement issued by her media aide, Bola Ajao, said, “We recognize the critical role of young people as agents of change, especially on issues that affect our planet. That’s why we are partnering with the Education Secretariat and other stakeholders to ensure students are included in this important campaign,” Dr. Fasawe stated.
The youth-focused campaign, convened by Ms. Daniella Olayinka of the Rotaract Club of Omole Golden, District 9111, will take advocacy to schools and campuses across the FCT to educate students on environmental protection and behavioral change.
The statement further explained that, “The campaign will employ interactive and creative approaches to engage the youth, including competitions, debates, poem recitations, talent hunts, social media challenges, and the formation of environmental clubs. These activities aim to inspire environmental responsibility, promote behavioral change, and encourage innovation among students. Incentives and prizes will also be given to outstanding participants to further motivate their involvement.”
The campaign will further sensitize communities on the dangers of using charcoal and firewood stoves, while encouraging households to embrace cleaner cooking methods such as Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LPG.
Scheduled for launch on November 13, the “Breathe Clean Air Abuja” project is a flagship public-private partnership under the FCTA that targets over 5,000 households across the six area councils, particularly in underserved communities.
The project with the theme, “Renewing Hope, One Household at a Time,” seeks to replace traditional firewood stoves with gas stoves to reduce indoor and outdoor air pollution.
Speaking on behalf of the youth, Ms. Olayinka reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Secretariat’s efforts to inspire lasting behavioral change. She emphasized key focus areas such as tree planting, carpooling, switching to LPG, avoiding open burning of refuse, and promoting the use of eco-friendly products.
