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The UBA Foundation has strengthened its commitment to environmental sustainability through the planting of trees in two iconic secondary schools in Lagos State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the UBA Foundation is the corporate social responsibility arm of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) group.
In a statement issued in Lagos on Sunday, the bank said the tree planting took place at King’s College, Lagos and CMS Grammar School, Bariga, in commemoration of World Environment Day 2026 (WED).
He noted that the 2026 WED had the theme “Inspired by Nature for the Climate and Our Future.”
The UBA said the theme highlights the urgent need for collective action to address climate change and environmental degradation.
The exercise marked the beginning of the foundation’s Tree Planting 2026 initiative, implemented in selected schools in Nigeria.
The aim is to promote environmental awareness among young people and encourage positive climate action.
UBA Foundation CEO Bola Atta said during the tree planting at CMS Grammar School that the initiative represents a strategic investment for the future.
“We want young people to understand that the environment needs our collective support and protection.
“Through initiatives like this, we are encouraging the next generation to embrace sustainable practices that will help create healthier communities and a better future for all,” the bank quoted Atta as saying.
Atta explained that the choice of King’s College and CMS Grammar School had to reflect the rich heritage of both institutions and their ability to sustain the initiative over time.
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“These are iconic institutions with deep historical significance.
“CMS Grammar School is Nigeria’s oldest secondary school, while King’s College has been training leaders for more than a century.
“We wanted schools where these trees were cultivated and allowed to flourish for generations to come,” Atta said, according to the bank.
According to the UBA, Atta said the initiative came at a time when rapid urbanization had continued to reduce green spaces in many Nigerian cities, highlighting the need for sustained environmental restoration efforts.
“Over the years, development has often taken precedence over environmental preservation, leading to the loss of many trees and green areas.
“However, there is no better time than now to start restoring our environment and making a lasting impact.”
He quoted UBA Group Chief Risk Officer, Awele Ajibola, who highlighted the importance of proactive environmental management in addressing climate-related risks.
“At UBA, initiatives like this demonstrate our commitment to the environment and the communities we serve.
“Climate change presents real and growing risks and, as a responsible financial institution, we recognize our role in promoting positive environmental action and sustainable development.”
According to UBA, other activities planned to celebrate WED 2026 include the inauguration of the bank as a member of the Financial Task Force for Plastic Action in Nigeria, Green Talk sessions with its customers in branches and the launch of sustainability clubs in some schools.
The bank quoted the principal of CMS Grammar School, Bariga, Rev. Jacob Ogunyinka, as describing tree planting as a practical extension of environmental education.
“Our students learn about the importance of trees and environmental conservation in the classroom.
“Seeing these principles demonstrated in practice deepens their understanding and inspires greater responsibility towards protecting the environment,” Ogunyinka said.
The bank also quoted the Principal of King’s College, Lagos, Magaji Zachariah, who expressed appreciation to the UBA Foundation for selecting the school as one of the beneficiaries of the program and for investing in environmental education.
(NAN)
