In celebration of World Environment Day, Inspired Youth Network (IYN), in partnership with ActionAid Nigeria, collaborated with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and Green Club Unilag to organize a special Stakeholder Forum and Painting Nexus for students at the University of Lagos (Unilag). This collaborative event aimed to engage young people, community leaders, environmental advocates, and key stakeholders in meaningful discussions and creative expressions centered around environmental protection and sustainability.

The Stakeholder Forum brought together experts and activists who shared insights on pressing environmental issues, including pollution control, waste management, climate action, and sustainable urban development. By engaging directly with students and community members, the forum facilitated open dialogue on the critical role individuals and communities play in fostering environmental stewardship. Panel discussions addressed not only the challenges faced by Lagos and Nigeria as a whole but also emphasized actionable steps and policies that can be implemented to protect natural resources and promote sustainable practices.

To further encourage environmental awareness and creativity, IYN and its partners organized the Painting Nexus, where students were invited to express their thoughts and visions for a greener future through art. This interactive painting session allowed students to visually represent their hopes for a sustainable Lagos, sparking conversations on topics such as green spaces, clean energy, and the importance of preserving natural habitats. By combining creative expression with environmental education, the Painting Nexus created an inspiring platform for students to reflect on their relationship with the environment and how they can contribute to positive change.

The collaboration between IYN, ActionAid Nigeria, LASEPA, and Green Club Unilag highlights a united commitment to addressing environmental challenges through inclusive community engagement and youth empowerment. The event also underscored the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals, showcasing how government agencies, NGOs, and student organizations can work together to build a more environmentally conscious society.

World Environment Day served as an ideal opportunity to inspire the next generation of environmental advocates and raise awareness on critical issues impacting our planet. Through this Stakeholder Forum and Painting Nexus, IYN and its partners empowered students to take an active role in environmental protection, nurturing a culture of responsibility, creativity, and community action that will support Lagos and Nigeria’s sustainable future.