ÈKÓ EnviroTalk, an independent non-governmental organisation focused on environmental sustainability, has commenced a five-day summer boot camp to educate young Nigerians on how to build green skills and promote eco-friendly practices. The programme, which began with a virtual opening ceremony on Zoom, is designed to train participants aged 13 to 25 years in environmental leadership through workshops, field trips, and advocacy training.
Speaking at the opening, the programme coordinator, Lasisi Adedoyin, said the initiative was part of the 2025 Young Leaders for Sustainable Environment Programme. He explained that the aim is to raise young champions who will drive environmental awareness and action in their communities. Adedoyin emphasised that the training would align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 11, 12, 13, and 15, which focus on quality education, sustainable cities, responsible consumption, climate action, and life on land.
Adedoyin added that ÈKÓ EnviroTalk believes young people are central to the fight against climate change. He said the NGO’s mission is to make environmental issues more relatable by using science communication and community-based projects. He thanked the sponsors and partners of the programme, including Gracefield Island, the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, and the Centre for 21st Century Issues, for supporting the cause. He assured participants that the week-long camp would provide an unforgettable experience while inspiring them to take bold steps toward sustainability.
The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Office of Environmental Services, Gaji Omobolaji, also addressed participants through his representative, Ilori Temitope. He expressed the Ministry’s appreciation for being part of the initiative and highlighted the importance of youth involvement in solving environmental challenges. Omobolaji reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting eco-conscious practices, climate education, and youth empowerment to build greener communities across Lagos.
He explained that the programme aligns with the Lagos State government’s T.H.E.M.E.S.+ development agenda, which prioritises environmental sustainability. He said climate action cannot be left for government alone but should be a collective responsibility that involves young people and communities. He commended ÈKÓ EnviroTalk for nurturing young environmental advocates, describing them as the next generation of leaders who can reshape how sustainability is understood and practiced in Nigeria.
Omobolaji warned that environmental challenges such as flooding, plastic pollution, food insecurity, and extreme heat are already affecting lives and livelihoods. He said climate change is no longer a distant issue but a present-day reality that requires urgent action. He, however, expressed hope that courageous youth leaders, like those in the programme, would rise above apathy and take meaningful steps toward change.
The NGO highlighted that the boot camp would not only feature lectures but also practical sessions, including creative competitions and community engagement projects, to give participants hands-on experiences. According to the organisers, this year’s cohort will leave the programme equipped to champion climate action in schools, neighbourhoods, and online platforms.
Adedoyin concluded by encouraging the participants to see themselves as environmental leaders, not just trainees. He reminded them that every effort counts, and that their voices can influence policies and inspire communities to adopt sustainable practices.
With Nigeria battling issues such as deforestation, flooding, waste management, and poor urban planning, the camp is expected to provide a platform for young people to find innovative solutions. By the end of the week, ÈKÓ EnviroTalk hopes the participants will form a network of green ambassadors dedicated to protecting the planet while influencing social change locally and globally.
