L-R: Director, Communication, Policy and Advocacy, Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), Mr. Kunle Olawoyin; Conservation Educator, National Park Service, Mrs. Ilesanmi Zuliat Hussain; Director, Business Development and Partnership, NCF, Mr. Uchenna Achunine; Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Union Bank of Nigeria, Mrs. Olufunmilola Aluko; Divisional Head, Corporate Affairs, FCMB, Mr. Diran Olojo; Director, Department of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Federal Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Olabimpe Adenaike; and Partner, KENNA Legal Practitioners, Mr. Daze Nga at the Nigerian Conservation Foundation Symposium held on June 19, 2026 at the Lekki Conservation Centre, Lekki, Lagos for the commemoration of World Environment Day
Abayomi Susan
Union Bank of Nigeria, in partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, marked the 2026 World Environment Day with a symposium held at the Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos. The event called for deeper collaboration in addressing climate change, advancing environmental conservation, and empowering young people to drive a sustainable future.
The symposium convened key stakeholders for robust discussions on environmental sustainability, climate action, and collective responsibility, aligned with this year’s theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.” The dialogue reinforced the global consensus reflected in Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action) and Sustainable Development Goal 17 (Partnerships), emphasising that no single institution can address the climate crisis alone.
Delivering her goodwill message, Union Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Mrs. Olufunmilola Aluko, underscored the importance of translating commitments into actionable impact, highlighting the critical role of the financial sector in enabling a green economy.
“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. Businesses must not only speak about sustainability but also act on it. Financial institutions, in particular, play a key role because they influence capital allocation. The decisions we make on what to finance ultimately shape the economy we build. This responsibility remains central to our operations at Union Bank, and it underscores the importance of engagements like this.”
Her remarks align with the widely accepted principle that the financial sector is a key driver in the transition toward a low-carbon economy, where investment decisions can significantly accelerate or hinder sustainable growth.
In his keynote address, the Director General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, Dr. Joseph Daniel Onoja, emphasised the urgency of environmental stewardship, describing conservation as essential to human survival.
He noted that nature already provides the blueprint for sustainable living, stressing that humanity’s responsibility is to protect it in order to ensure its continued support for life.
A student-led panel session added an intergenerational perspective to the symposium, with secondary school participants from across Lagos showcasing innovative solutions such as waste-to-art designs and clean energy concepts. The students also advocated for increased investment in climate-conscious practices and sustainable energy solutions, reflecting the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 12 on responsible consumption and production.
Union Bank reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote environmental protection, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable community development for present and future generations. The Bank emphasised that safeguarding the environment remains integral to building a resilient and enduring economy.
About Union Bank of Nigeria Plc
Established in 1917, Union Bank of Nigeria is a leading financial institution in Nigeria, guided by its “Simpler, Smarter Banking” philosophy. With a nationwide branch network and a strong focus on digital innovation, the Bank provides a wide range of financial services to individuals, businesses, and public sector clients.
These include current and savings accounts, loans and overdrafts, trade finance, foreign currency services, and equipment leasing, as well as digital banking channels such as mobile banking, online banking, debit cards, ATMs, and POS services.
More information:
Media Enquiries:
Olufisayo Adelekun
+234 (0) 201 271 6800
mediarelations@unionbankng.com
