The UBA Foundation has strengthened its commitment to environmental sustainability with the planting of trees at two iconic secondary schools in Lagos State as part of activities marking the 2026 World Environment Day (WED).
The initiative, carried out at King’s College, Lagos, and CMS Grammar School, Bariga, signals the commencement of the foundation’s 2026 Tree Planting Campaign aimed at promoting environmental consciousness among young Nigerians and encouraging climate-positive actions.
UBA Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group, said the exercise was inspired by the theme of this year’s World Environment Day, “Inspired by Nature for Climate for Our Future,” which highlights the urgent need for collective action against climate change and environmental degradation.
L–R: Managing Director, UBA Foundation, Bola Atta; Principal, CMS Grammar School, Jacob Ayokunle Ogunyinka; and Health, Safely and Environment Manager, United Bank for Africa, Khalid Agboola; flanked by students of CMS Grammar School, Bariga, Lagos, during UBA Foundation tree planting to commemorate World Environment Day 2026
Speaking during the tree-planting exercise at CMS Grammar School, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, described the initiative as 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 create healthier communities and a better future for all,” Atta said.
She explained that the selection of King’s College and CMS Grammar School reflected the historical significance of both institutions and their capacity 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,” she added.
Atta noted that the initiative comes at a time when rapid urbanisation continues to reduce green spaces across many Nigerian cities, making environmental restoration increasingly important.
“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 begin restoring our environment and making a lasting impact,” she said.
Also speaking, UBA Group Chief Risk Officer, Awele Ajibola, emphasised the importance of proactive environmental stewardship in addressing climate-related risks and promoting sustainable development.
“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 said.
The bank disclosed that other activities organised to commemorate the 2026 World Environment Day include its inauguration as a member of the Finance Taskforce for Plastic Action in Nigeria, Green Talk sessions with customers across branches, and the launch of sustainability clubs in selected schools.
The Principal of CMS Grammar School, Rev. Jacob Ogunyinka, commended the initiative, describing it as a practical extension of environmental education.
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“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,” he said.
Similarly, the Principal of King’s College, Mr. Magaji Zachariah, expressed appreciation to the UBA Foundation for selecting the school as one of the beneficiaries of the programme and for investing in environmental education and sustainability awareness among students.
The tree-planting exercise forms part of UBA Foundation’s broader efforts to support environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and community development across Nigeria.
