The need for greater environmental consciousness among youths has been emphasised, with environmental education described as a vital investment in the future of Ondo State.

Wife of the Ondo State Governor, Mrs Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, made the call at the inauguration of Renewed Hope Environmental Clubs in secondary and tertiary institutions across the state.

She described the initiative, organised by the Federal Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Ondo State Ministry of Environment, as a strategic step towards raising a generation of environmentally responsible citizens.

Mrs Aiyedatiwa noted that environmental protection should go beyond government policies to become a shared responsibility and a way of life, adding that the clubs would equip students with relevant knowledge to protect their surroundings.

She acknowledged the environmental challenges confronting the state and stressed the need to involve young people in developing sustainable solutions.

The Governor’s wife also commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for championing the Renewed Hope initiative, while appreciating Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for supporting programmes that promote environmental protection and public health.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Tob Loko, disclosed that about 700 students from selected secondary and tertiary institutions had been enrolled in the programme.

He explained that the clubs would promote proper waste management, pollution control, environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation.

Mr Loko added that the Ministry would provide training and necessary materials to support the students’ activities.

Also speaking, environmental activist and Special Assistant to the Governor on Photography, Motunrayo Oyedele, urged the students to embrace simple but impactful environmental practices in their daily lives.

The initiative is expected to deepen environmental awareness among students and encourage sustainable practices in schools and communities across Ondo State.