UBA Foundation has reinforced commitment to environmental sustainability through  tree planting at two iconic secondary schools in Lagos State.

The UBA Foundation is the corporate social responsibility arm of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group.

In a statement on Sunday in Lagos, the bank said the tree planting took place at King’s College, Lagos, and CMS Grammar School, Bariga,  in commemoration of  the 2026 World Environment Day (WED).

It noted that the 2026 WED had the theme, “Inspired by Nature For Climate For Our Future.”

UBA said that the theme underscored the urgent need for collective action to address climate change and environmental degradation.

It said the exercise marked the commencement of the foundation’s 2026 tree planting initiative being implemented across selected schools in Nigeria.

It said that the aim was to promote environmental consciousness among young people and encourage climate-positive action.

It quoted the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, as saying  during tree planting at CMS Grammar School that the initiative was a strategic investment in 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 to create healthier communities and a better future for all,” the bank quoted Atta as saying.

It added that Atta explained that the choice of King’s College and CMS Grammar School was to reflect both institutions’ rich heritage and their capacities to sustain the initiative over time.

“These are iconic institutions with deep historical significance. CMS Grammar School is Nigeria’s oldest secondary school, while King’s College has been shaping leaders for more than a century.

“We wanted schools where these trees will be nurtured and allowed to flourish for generations to come,”  Atta said.

According to UBA, Atta said that the initiative came at a time when rapid urbanisation had continued to reduce green spaces across many Nigerian cities, highlighting the need for sustained environmental restoration efforts.

“Over the years, development has often taken precedence over environmental preservation, leading to loss of many trees and green areas.

However, there is no better time than now to begin restoring our environment and making a lasting impact, ”Atta said. 

It also quoted UBA’s Group Chief Risk Officer, Awele Ajibola, as emphasising the importance of proactive environmental stewardship 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 recognise our role in driving positive environmental action and sustainable development,” Ajibola added. 

According to UBA, other activities by it to mark 2026 WED  include the bank’s inauguration as a member of the Finance Taskforce for Plastic Action in Nigeria, Green Talk sessions with its customers across branches and launch of sustainability clubs in some schools.

The bank quoted the Principal of CMS Grammar School, Bariga, Jacob  Ogunyinka, as describing the tree planting as 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,” it quoted Mr Ogunyinka as saying.

The bank also quoted the Principal of King’s College, Lagos, Magaji Zachariah, as expressing appreciation to UBA Foundation for selecting the school as one of the beneficiaries of the programme and for investing in environmental education.

 (NAN)