Despite a heavy downpour, the Africa Cleanup Initiative (ACI), in partnership with Providus Bank and other environmental stakeholders, staged a spirited “Walk for Sustainability and Recycling” on Saturday in Lagos to mark the 2025 World Environment Day and commemorate ACI’s 15th anniversary.
The walk, which drew over 100 volunteers, kicked off from Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) and moved through Broad Street to CMS, with participants collecting plastic waste along the route as a symbolic action against pollution.
Participants, made up of environmental advocates, volunteers, and staff from various organizations, braved the weather to push the message of sustainability and recycling across Lagos Island.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Alex Akhigbe, Executive Director of ACI, emphasized the importance of citizen participation in addressing environmental challenges, particularly plastic pollution.
“This walk is our way of commemorating World Environment Day while raising awareness about sustainability and responsible waste management,” Akhigbe said. “No amount of advocacy is too much. If we don’t take deliberate action to reduce plastic waste, the consequences will be dire. This fight is not the government’s alone — it’s everyone’s responsibility.”
Akhigbe highlighted that the theme for this year’s World Environment Day centers on “Beating Plastic Pollution,” urging Nigerians to adopt responsible waste disposal habits and amplify advocacy in their communities.
“It amazes me that even in the rain, more than 100 volunteers came out to walk and clean. That shows true commitment,” he added.
Representatives from Providus Bank also joined the event, demonstrating corporate support for environmental advocacy.
Patriciaclaire Iwhewhe of the bank’s Sustainability Department expressed excitement about the collaboration, encouraging Lagos residents to embrace behavioral change towards waste disposal and environmental care.
“For us at Providus Bank, this is more than a CSR initiative — it’s a responsibility,” she said. “We are glad to be part of this movement and hope more Nigerians will join the call to protect our environment.”
Joseph Odey Eneji, from Providus Bank’s E-Business Team, echoed the sentiment. “Rain or shine, we showed up. That’s how passionate we are about the environment,” he said.
Also present was Dr. Femi Adegoke, Special Adviser to the Minister of Health on “One Health,” who lauded the initiative and described the walk as both inspiring and impactful.
“Walking alongside committed environmentalists is a reminder that every action counts,” Adegoke said. “Clean sanitation, reducing plastic waste, and promoting a healthy environment must remain national priorities.”
The event forms part of a broader campaign by ACI to mark 15 years of environmental service and mobilize citizens toward sustainable practices that protect Nigeria’s ecosystems.