By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata and Ajike Olokuta
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has launched a youth-led campaign to combat air pollution and promote environmental protection across communities and schools in Abuja.
The initiative, driven by the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), will empower young people to identify pollution hotspots, monitor emission sources, and raise awareness on the health risks of poor air quality.
According to a statement by Mrs. Bola Ajao, media aide to the Mandate Secretary of HSES, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, the campaign will engage students in secondary and tertiary institutions through partnerships with Rotaract Clubs and other stakeholders.
Declaring the advocacy drive open in Abuja, Dr. Fasawe said the Secretariat is working with Rotaract Clubs of Abuja Maitama, Apo FCT, Wuse II, and Omole Golden, among others, to sensitise youths on air pollution and promote clean energy practices.
The campaign, convened by Ms. Daniella Olayinka, will feature debates, talent shows, and social media challenges, as well as the formation of environmental clubs in schools. Outstanding participants will receive awards for excellence.
Dr. Fasawe noted that the project discourages the use of charcoal and firewood, promotes Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and seeks to improve household energy practices through the upcoming “Breathe Clean Air Abuja” initiative, which targets replacing traditional stoves with gas stoves in over 5,000 homes across the FCT.
Residents have been urged to report illegal waste burning and excessive generator use, as youths will serve as the administration’s “eyes and ears” in communities to ensure cleaner air in the nation’s capital.
