World Environment Day 2026: Tree planting and climate dialogue inspire youth action for a greener, more resilient Abuja
The ILO, UNIC Abuja and AEPB marked World Environment Day 2026 by empowering students, policymakers and communities through tree planting and climate dialogue, advancing collective action for greener, more resilient cities in Nigeria.
12 June 2026
Abuja – The International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Abuja and the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) commemorated World Environment Day 2026 with a tree-planting campaign and a symposium that promoted climate action, strengthened environmental awareness and advanced practical solutions for building resilient cities. Held under the theme “Climate Change and Urbanization: Building Resilient Cities,” the activities brought together students, policymakers, government officials, environmental experts and civil society organizations to promote sustainable urban development and environmental stewardship.
The commemoration began on 4 June 2026 with a tree-planting campaign at Government Secondary School, Gwarinpa Estate, Abuja. Students participated in environmental exhibitions, engaged with experts from the ILO and AEPB, and received practical guidance on environmental protection and climate action. Representatives of the United Nations, AEPB and the school authorities joined students in planting trees within the school premises. The initiative delivered immediate environmental and educational benefits by raising awareness of climate change and encouraging responsible environmental practices among young people. The newly planted trees will contribute to improved air quality, biodiversity conservation, urban cooling and a healthier environment for current and future students.
Speaking at the event, AEPB Director, Mrs. Kate Ogbonna, highlighted the environmental challenges facing rapidly growing cities and reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to sustainability through improved waste management and sanitation standards. She emphasized that resilient cities are essential for sustainable development and improved quality of life.
The activities culminated on 5 June 2026 with a symposium at the Cyprian Ekwensi Centre for Arts and Culture, Abuja. The forum brought together policymakers, environmental professionals and urban development experts to discuss practical climate solutions and strategies for creating sustainable and resilient cities. Participants called for increased tree planting, protection of green spaces and wetlands, and stronger environmental responsibility across the Federal Capital Territory. The discussions reinforced the importance of collective action in addressing climate-related challenges while promoting sustainable urban growth.
Chief Felix Obuah, Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, underscored the importance of youth engagement in environmental protection. He urged residents to contribute to building cities that are economically vibrant, socially inclusive and environmentally resilient.
In its goodwill message delivered by Stephen Agugua, representing the Director, ILO Country Office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Liaison Office for ECOWAS, Dr Vanessa Phala called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders and improved management of Abuja’s green spaces. The ILO reiterated its commitment to supporting greening initiatives that create healthier communities, strengthen climate resilience and contribute to sustainable development.
The United Nations Secretary-General’s message, delivered by a representative of UNIC Abuja, reinforced the urgency of global climate action. The message highlighted the growing impacts of climate change, including ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss, and called for accelerated efforts to reduce emissions, expand renewable energy solutions and support a just transition to a sustainable future.
By combining environmental education with practical action, the World Environment Day 2026 commemoration empowered students to become environmental ambassadors, strengthened public awareness and fostered partnerships that will support long-term climate resilience. The initiative demonstrated how collaboration between government institutions, the United Nations and local communities can help create greener, healthier and more sustainable cities for present and future generations of Nigerians.