The Lagos State Government has stepped up efforts to promote safety awareness and environmental responsibility among young people with a one day sensitization programme for teachers and students across the state’s six education districts.
The programme was held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja. It was organised by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation and the Office of Environmental Services.
In her opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs Abisola Dokunmu Adegbite, described the initiative as necessary, stressing that road safety and environmental sustainability remain critical to everyday life. She said many road accidents are linked to poor understanding of traffic rules and signs, in addition to unsafe driving practices.
She explained that road signs serve as essential guides for road users, helping to regulate traffic and protect pedestrians, particularly students. According to her, the programme was designed to improve knowledge of traffic signs, encourage safe behaviour on the roads, and promote discipline among young people.
On environmental issues, she warned that the effects of climate change are already visible through flooding, rising temperatures, and unpredictable weather patterns. She urged schools to adopt practical measures such as proper waste disposal, reduced use of plastics, tree planting, and conservation of energy and water. She also encouraged teachers to incorporate these topics into classroom teaching.
Delivering the keynote address, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Tolani Alli Balogun, said the government is committed to raising responsible and environmentally conscious citizens. He noted that education must equip students with the knowledge and values required to live safely and protect their environment.
He added that Lagos faces growing environmental risks as a coastal state, including flooding and rising sea levels, but said collective action can reduce the impact. He urged participants to adopt simple practices such as recycling, proper waste management, and reduced reliance on single use plastics.
Speaking on road safety, the commissioner said compliance with traffic rules and mutual respect among road users are essential to reducing accidents. He urged students and teachers to serve as advocates for safe practices in their communities.
He also disclosed plans by the state government to establish Safety and Environment Clubs in schools and introduce recognition for institutions that demonstrate high standards in cleanliness and student safety.
The programme featured technical sessions led by officials from partner agencies. An engineer from the Ministry of Transportation, Ojowuro Olasunkanmi, spoke on road safety and traffic sign interpretation, while a representative of the Office of Environmental Services, Mr Abass Muhammad, addressed climate change and environmental sustainability.
In her closing remarks, the Director of Science and Technology, Mrs Grace Akinfoyewa, thanked participants and facilitators, urging them to apply the knowledge gained and share it within their schools.
The initiative reflects the state government’s broader push to build a safer and more environmentally responsible society through education and youth engagement.
