PHOTO STORY: Lagos streets, bus stops become refuse dumps as collection system falters

Bank workers cleaned Lagos beach during a coordinated effort involving multiple local organizations and institutions, removing over 200 kilograms of waste from Alpha Community Beach in Lekki, Lagos. The activity, organized by Union Bank of Nigeria, took place as part of the bank's 2026 Employee Volunteer Day under its UnionCares Corporate Social Responsibility program. More than 50 employees participated alongside representatives from the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, students from Rodan High School in Ajah, and staff from the Lagos State Waste Management Authority, which assisted with the logistics and safe disposal of the collected waste. The cleanup operation was conducted in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, highlighting the growing emphasis on addressing environmental challenges through public-private partnerships. According to a statement released to Sunday PUNCH, the event underscored the urgent need to tackle plastic pollution, which remains a critical issue in Nigeria. The nation produces an estimated 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with Lagos contributing approximately 870,000 tonnes. Over 88 percent of this waste is not recycled, leading to significant amounts ending up in rivers, lagoons, and the Atlantic Ocean. During the event, volunteers were split into eight groups, each tasked with collecting waste from the shoreline. In addition to the group efforts, individuals contributed further by gathering additional litter, illustrating the extent of pollution affecting coastal areas. The total amount of waste collected exceeded 200 kilograms, demonstrating both the scale of the problem and the effectiveness of community-driven solutions. Speaking at the event, Olufunmilola Aluko, the bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, emphasized the importance of collective action in environmental protection. She stated that safeguarding the environment is a shared responsibility and that Union Bank is dedicated to fulfilling its role in this endeavor. With increasing evidence of climate change, she noted that such initiatives enable employees to engage directly in meaningful actions that benefit their communities and support long-term sustainability goals. The bank highlighted that its efforts align with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). These goals reflect the broader international commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. By participating in these activities, Union Bank aims to foster greater awareness and encourage other businesses to adopt similar practices. Looking ahead, the bank expressed its intention to maintain its engagement with environmental causes by continuing to work with stakeholders and implementing targeted community-based projects. These initiatives will focus on reducing pollution levels and advancing sustainable development across different regions of Nigeria. The recent beach cleanup serves as a model for future efforts, reinforcing the idea that collaborative action can lead to tangible improvements in environmental health and community well-being.