This post has already been read at least 1172 times!

In a landmark initiative aimed at fostering environmental consciousness and supporting Nigeria’s climate commitments, the Ministry of Defence has formally launched the integration of environmental sustainability into the curriculum of all Armed Forces Primary and Secondary Schools nationwide.

The announcement was made during the flag-off ceremony of the National Green School Program at the Nigeria Navy Secondary School, Kuje, Abuja. Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Aduda, the Director of Education, Mr. Marcus Kura, unveiled the policy as a critical step toward aligning the nation’s educational framework with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s climate objectives and the Sustainable Development Goals. Our Armed Forces schools must serve as models of sustainability, equipping young minds with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect and preserve our environment,” Ambassador Aduda stated in his remarks, delivered by Mr. Kura.

He also highlighted the Ministry’s adoption of a comprehensive Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework designed to track the progress and impact of the green curriculum. The M&E framework will ensure measurable outcomes, promote accountability, and drive continuous program improvement.

The National Green School Program, which is being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Education, and other stakeholders, is set to transform Armed Forces schools into hubs of practical environmental education. Activities under the program will include tree planting, clean-up campaigns, recycling initiatives, and the creation of sustainability-focused school clubs.

Commandant of the Nigeria Navy Secondary School, Cdr. J.O. Ibiang, described the launch as “a call to action,” emphasizing that the program would instill a lasting sense of environmental responsibility in students. He also expressed appreciation to the Ministry for its visionary leadership.

The event drew the presence of key officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff (represented by the Director of Education at Defence Headquarters, Commodore Adetunji), senior Defence Ministry officials, military education officers, and representatives from the Ministries of Environment and Education. School administrators, teachers, and students were also in attendance.

The day’s highlights included a ceremonial tree planting, a student exhibition on recycling innovations, and a collective pledge by participating schools to uphold environmentally sustainable practices.

The Ministry’s initiative marks a significant step forward in merging national defence education with global environmental imperatives, laying a foundation for climate-aware leadership among Nigeria’s future military and civic leaders.

This post has already been read at least 1172 times!