The campaign for cleaner air and a healthier environment in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has gained fresh momentum as youths take the message to markets and schools, amplifying the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA) commitment to tackling air pollution under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike.
The advocacy drive — part of the “Breathe Clean Air Abuja” initiative — saw young volunteers distribute flyers, handbills, and engage students, traders, and residents across major markets and schools in Abuja. The project, scheduled for official launch on November 13, is a flagship public-private partnership under the FCTA designed to raise awareness about the health and environmental dangers of air pollution and promote clean energy alternatives.
The initiative specifically targets over 5,000 households across the six area councils of the FCT, aiming to phase out traditional firewood and charcoal stoves in favor of cleaner cooking options such as gas stoves — particularly in underserved communities.
Leading the youth campaign, Ms. Daniella Omotola, a behavioral advocate and member of the Rotaract Club of Omole Golden, District 9111, said the group’s mission is to empower young people to take ownership of environmental protection.
“Air pollution affects our planet, it affects our lives. Therefore, as youths, we must get involved in whatever needs to be done to protect our environment,” Omotola stated.
She explained that the campaign would use creative strategies to engage young people.
“We have introduced competitions, debates, poem recitations, talent hunts, social media challenges, and the formation of environmental clubs,” she said, adding that incentives and prizes would be awarded to outstanding participants to sustain enthusiasm.
Omotola also expressed gratitude to FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike, CON, and the Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, for backing youth participation in environmental reform.
Declaring the campaign open in Abuja, Dr. Fasawe said the Secretariat’s collaboration with Rotaract Clubs and other youth groups is part of a deliberate effort to build a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
“Members of these clubs are joining outreach efforts to expand the campaign’s reach and impact among young people,” she explained.
She said the “Breathe Clean Air Abuja” initiative would encourage residents to switch to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and adopt sustainable practices that reduce pollution and safeguard public health.
The campaign represents a major step in implementing the FCTA’s environmental sustainability agenda — and underscores a growing youth-led movement determined to ensure that Abuja breathes cleaner, safer air for generations to come.
