By Ajibola Adedoye
An independent environmental sustainability Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), ÈKÓ EnviroTalk, has flagged off a five-day summer boot camp to educate youths on environmental sustainability.
The summer adventure which saw participants drawn from the age range of 13 to 25 years aims to help participants build green skills and lead the change for a better planet through interactive workshops and seminars, field excursions, and advocacy trainings.
Speaking at the virtual opening ceremony convened in Lagos, Programme Coordinator ÈKÓ EnviroTalk, Mr Lasisi Adedoyin, said the summer camp aimed to groom environmental sustainability champions.
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Adedoyin said the 2025 Young Leaders for Sustainable Environment Programme (YLSEP) cohort would leverage the programme to build the skills and connections that will drive positive changes in their communities.
He said the contributions would align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals 4, 11, 12, 13, and 15 for Quality Education; Sustainable Cities and Communities; Responsible Consumption and Production; Climate Action and Life on Land.
“And together, we are creating a healthier environment and a better future for Lagos and communities across the globe,” he said.
Adedoyin thanked the event sponsor, Gracefield Island and partners, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources and Centre for 21st Century Issues for their support towards the pursuit of environmental sustainability goals.
He assured the 2025 cohort that the programme would be an unforgettable week of learning and of taking bold steps towards a sustainable future.
He said ÈKÓ EnviroTalk believes that young people can drive real change, adding that the NGO’s mission is to make environmental issues understandable with actions through science communication and community-based projects.
“We are dedicated to nurturing a new generation of sustainability leaders, especially through knowledge products like this summer camp, creative competitions and youth empowerment initiatives,” he said.
Mr Gaji Omobolaji, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Office of Environmental Services, conveyed the ministry’s appreciation for the opportunity to partner with the NGO on the “timely initiative.”
Omobolaji represented by Mrs Ilori Temitope, said his ministry was deeply committed to promoting eco-conscious practices, strengthening climate education and empowering young people to build greener and more resilient communities across Lagos.
He assured the organizers of the ministry’s continued support.
He expressed gratitude to ÈKÓ EnviroTalk for its commitment to mentoring and nurturing young change makers.
He said the programme aligned with the state government’s T.H.E.M.E.S+development agenda.
“Let us be reminded that sustainability is not solely a government’s mandate. It is a shared responsibility.
“We must actively include the youths in shaping solutions, driving climate action and championing the course by spreading the sustainable messages within their respective domains,” he said.
He also commended ÈKÓ EnviroTalk for its dedication to environmental education and advocacy towards empowerment of the next generation of leaders for building a more sustainable environment.
“Your passion and innovation are exactly what we need to chart a smart city of Lagos and a healthier planet.
“As we gather here today, we cannot ignore the pressing challenges facing our planet.
According to him, the climate crisis is no longer a distant concern; it is a daily reality from unprecedented flooding and plastic pollution to extreme heat, poverty and food insecurity; the signs are staring at us.
“But alongside these challenges, we are also witnessing the rise of a new wave of courageous, visionary youth leaders like those gathered here who are choosing action over apathy.
“I strongly believe that the participants of this program are part of the rising force that represents urgency, courage and the ability to reimagine what sustainability means in real and local terms,” he said.
Oreoluwa Babajide, who delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Gracefield Island, outlined environmental challenges and how the bootcamp would provide long-term solutions.
She urged the participants to continue to be worthy environment ambassadors.
Also, Miss Gbemisola Akosa, the Chief Executive Officer, Centre for 21st Century Issues, commended the participants while reeling out interventions of her organization towards environmental sustainability.
Akosa explained how the 2025 cohort would shape environmental sustainability actions that would make a positive impact to transform the world.
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