Lagos – Union Bank of Nigeria, in partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), has called for greater collaboration among businesses, government, civil society and young people to tackle climate change and promote environmental sustainability.
The call was made during the 2026 World Environment Day Symposium held at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos. The event, themed “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” brought together environmental experts, policymakers, students and other stakeholders to discuss climate action, conservation and sustainable development.
Speaking at the symposium, Union Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Mrs. Olufunmilola Aluko, said businesses must move beyond rhetoric by matching sustainability commitments with concrete action.
She noted that financial institutions have a significant responsibility in shaping a greener economy through responsible lending and investment decisions.
“As a bank that has been part of Nigeria’s story for over a century, Union Bank recognises that sustainable development and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand. Banks help determine where capital flows, and the choices we make influence the kind of economy we build. This is a responsibility we take seriously,” she said.
Aluko stressed that partnerships remain critical to addressing climate challenges, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on climate action and partnerships.
In his keynote address, the Director-General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, Dr. Joseph Daniel Onoja, described environmental conservation as essential to humanity’s survival.
“When we talk about nature conservation, we’re talking about human conservation. Nature will always take care of itself, but it is in our best interest to protect the earth because it provides everything we need to survive,” he said.
The event also featured a panel session involving secondary school students from Lagos and other states, who advocated climate-conscious investments and cleaner energy solutions. The students showcased innovative projects that transformed waste into interior décor and clean energy products, highlighting the role of young people in advancing sustainable development.
Union Bank reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote environmental protection, ecosystem restoration and sustainable communities, noting that safeguarding the environment is integral to building a resilient economy for future generations.
Established in 1917, Union Bank is one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, providing innovative banking solutions through a nationwide network of over 300 branches and digital banking platforms.
