A wave of youth-led activism hit markets and schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as advocates distributed fliers and engaged the public to combat air pollution and promote clean energy alternatives.
The campaign is a precursor to the upcoming “Breathe Clean Air Abuja” project, a flagship public-private partnership initiative set for launch on November 13, by the FCT Administration (FCTA).
The project aims to replace traditional firewood and charcoal stoves with cleaner gas alternatives, targeting over 5,000 households in underserved communities across the territory’s six area councils.
Led by Ms Daniella Omotola, a behavioral advocate and Rotaractor, the group comprising members of various FCT Rotaract Clubs and Youth Corps members, is mobilising young people to be at the forefront of the environmental crusade.
“Air pollution affects our planet, it affects our lives. Therefore, as youths, we must get involved in whatever needs to be done to protect our environment,” she said.
Omotola detailed their strategy to capture the interest of their peers, saying, “We have employed interactive and creative approaches for youth engagement.
“We are introducing competitions, debates, poem recitations, and the formation of environmental clubs. We will give incentives and prizes to outstanding participants to further motivate their involvement.”
Omotola expressed gratitude for the administration’s support, saying, “We are immensely grateful to the FCT minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, and the mandate secretary, Dr Dolapo Fasawe, for ensuring this collaboration and having this level of confidence in the youths.”
The initiative has received the full backing of the FCTA, with the mandate secretary for the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, declaring the campaign open, and announcing a formal collaboration with the youth groups.
“Members of these clubs are to join the outreach efforts to further expand the campaign’s reach and impact among young people,” Fasawe said.
The campaign will focus on educating citizens about the health dangers of indoor air pollution from solid fuels and encouraging a switch to cleaner cooking methods using Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).
