COWA to train 250 students as climate ambassadors

The Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) has intensified its environmental advocacy with the launch of a nationwide sustainability drive across the Nigerian Custom Service (NCS) borders targeted at driving sustainable economic growth. The initiative, unveiled during an environmental education workshop themed “Green Barracks, Green Borders: Advancing Environmental Stewardship for a Carbon-Responsible Future,” brought together students, […]

The Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) has intensified its environmental advocacy with the launch of a nationwide sustainability drive across the Nigerian Custom Service (NCS) borders targeted at driving sustainable economic growth.

The initiative, unveiled during an environmental education workshop themed “Green Barracks, Green Borders: Advancing Environmental Stewardship for a Carbon-Responsible Future,” brought together students, educators, customs officials and environmental experts, at the Nigeria Customs Service School, Ogun I Area Command, Idiroko, a statement by COWA has said. 

Speaking at the programme, COWA National President, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, said the programme goes beyond ceremonial tree planting, stressing that it is designed to instill environmental responsibility and leadership in young Nigerians.

She said, “Today is special not because we are gathered in a hall, but because we are planting something much bigger than trees. We are planting responsibility, awareness and leadership in the hearts of our children to drive sustainable economic growth.”

Adeniyi noted that rising environmental challenges such as flooding, plastic pollution and extreme temperatures require urgent grassroots action, adding that schools and communities remain critical to achieving lasting change.

As part of the Green Borders Sustainability Initiative, COWA launched the Adopt-a-School Campaign, with the Nigeria Customs Service School designated as the first Green Border Eco-School.

Under the scheme, 250 students drawn from five customs commands — Apapa, PTML, KLT, FOU Zone A and the host command — will be trained as Green Ambassadors.

“These students will learn not only mathematics and languages, but also how to plant trees, reduce waste, and lead others in protecting the environment,” Adeniyi explained.

 

 

 

She emphasized that climate action must begin at the grassroots level.

 

 

 

“We are not just planting trees today; we are planting responsibility and leadership in our children. Climate action begins in our schools, homes and communities,” she added.