The Health Services and Environment Secretariat (FCT) is engaging young people to lead efforts in protecting the environment for future generations by curbing air pollution and promoting sustainability.

The initiative was launched on Monday in Abuja by a young rotaractor from the Rotaract Club of Omole Golden, District 9111, and a behavioural advocate, Daniella Olayinka.

The campaign involves visits to schools and campuses across the FCT to educate students on environmental protection and the upcoming “Breathe Clean Air Abuja” project.

Declaring the campaign open, the mandate secretary, Adedolapo Fasawe, announced collaboration with Rotaract Clubs in the city, including Abuja Maitama, Apo FCT, and Abuja Wuse II, alongside other stakeholders.

Ms Fasawe said the sensitisation would focus on the dangers of air pollution and the benefits of clean energy, with club members expected to join outreach efforts for wider youth engagement.

She stated, “We recognise young people as agents of change, especially on issues affecting our planet. That is why we are partnering with the Education Secretariat to include students in this important campaign.

“The campaign will use interactive approaches such as competitions, debates, poem recitations, talent hunts, social media challenges, and forming environmental clubs to inspire responsibility and behavioural change among students.

“Incentives and prizes will be awarded to outstanding participants to motivate involvement,” she said, noting that the initiative would also raise awareness on switching from charcoal and firewood stoves to LPG for cleaner cooking.”

Ms Fasawe said the campaign promoted habits that protected the environment from pollution and hazardous substances, encouraging tree planting, carpooling, and the use of eco-friendly products.

“The Breathe Clean Air Abuja project, scheduled to launch on November 13, is a flagship public-private partnership under the FCTA, aiming to replace traditional stoves with gas stoves in more than 5,000 households across the six FCT area councils,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of youths, Ms Olayinka reaffirmed young people’s readiness to support the secretariat in spreading awareness and inspiring behavioural change.

She emphasised key focus areas, including tree planting, carpooling, using LPG, avoiding open burning of refuse, and promoting eco-friendly practices.

The project’s theme, “Renewing Hope, One Household at a Time,” reflects the FCTA’s commitment to a healthier, cleaner, and more sustainable Abuja through youth-driven advocacy and community engagement.

(NAN)