By Nkechi Eze
In a major policy shift aimed at fostering climate responsibility and shaping environmentally conscious future leaders, the Ministry of Defence has announced the integration of environmental sustainability into the curriculum of all Armed Forces Primary and Secondary Schools across Nigeria.
The initiative, unveiled during the flag-off ceremony of the National Green School Program at Nigeria Navy Secondary School, Kuje, Abuja, marks a milestone in the government’s broader effort to align education with national climate goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
According to an official statement signed by Principal Superintendent of Press, Patience Ituke, the new policy was introduced by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Aduda, who was represented at the event by the Ministry’s Director of Education, Mr. Marcus Kura.
Ambassador Aduda described the initiative as a deliberate step by the Ministry to embed environmental consciousness in the mindset of Nigerian youth through hands-on, project-based learning. “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,” he stated.
He further announced the rollout of a robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework designed to track the implementation and impact of the initiative across the country. The framework will be used to measure learning outcomes, ensure accountability, and support continuous improvement in environmental education.
The implementation of the policy is in collaboration with the National Green School Program, a federal initiative that seeks to mainstream environmental education across Nigerian schools. Through this partnership, students will participate in practical eco-friendly activities such as tree planting, recycling projects, clean-up campaigns, and the establishment of green clubs focused on sustainability.
Director of Education Mr. Kura, speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, noted that the program represents a shift in educational philosophy. “Through this partnership, students will engage in practical eco-friendly activities, including tree planting, recycling projects, clean-up campaigns, and sustainability-focused school clubs,” he said.
Earlier in the ceremony, the Commandant of the Nigeria Navy Secondary School, Commander J.O. Ibiang, described the initiative as more than just a ceremonial occasion. He called it a timely and urgent call to action aimed at instilling eco-consciousness and promoting green habits in students from an early age. He thanked Ambassador Aduda for his leadership and commitment to integrating climate concerns into the national education strategy.
The ceremony was attended by a cross-section of top military and civilian officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, who was represented by the Director of Education at Defence Headquarters, Commodore Adetunji. Also present were officials from the Ministries of Environment and Education, school administrators, military education officers, teachers, and students.
The event was marked by vibrant student exhibitions showcasing recycling innovations, tree planting exercises symbolizing a new green beginning, and a collective pledge from participating schools to uphold green values in their academic environments.
The Ministry of Defence has reiterated that this initiative is not a one-off event but a long-term educational strategy that will be continuously monitored, reviewed, and scaled up in the coming years.
