By : Arinze Okoro
Inspiring a Generation for Climate Action
Sustainability, at its core, means meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. Yet, for this vision to become reality, young people must understand the principles of sustainability—climate change, renewable energy, and the circular economy—so they can build a resilient future.
This idea underpinned the Connecting Communities and Heritages against Climate Change (CCHCC) programme, a collaborative initiative between the Open University (UK), the University of Ibadan (Nigeria), Highland One World (Scotland), and the YMCA African Alliance. The project, grounded in participatory research and co-design, engages children and youth from Nigeria, Kenya, and Scotland in creative, community-based climate action.
At the heart of this initiative lies artivism—a fusion of art and activism—which uses artistic expression as a medium for social and political change. Artivism allows young voices to convey powerful messages that transcend conventional advocacy, turning creativity into a catalyst for transformation.
Two weeks ago, this spirit came alive in Abuja, when the Nigerian arm of the CCHCC project—led by Dr. Deborah Ayodele-Olajire of the University of Ibadan—brought together children from schools across the Federal Capital Territory, alongside lawmakers, development experts, civil servants, and the media. The gathering provided a platform for children to share their climate concerns through art, affirming their right to participate in shaping environmental policies that affect their future.
Art as a Voice for the Planet
Through vibrant exhibitions, spoken word, paintings, and sculptures, young Nigerians used art as a language of advocacy, demanding urgent and meaningful climate action from government and society. Their creative expressions reflected their deep awareness of how climate change threatens their future, portraying both the beauty of nature and the destructive consequences of human negligence.
The artworks highlighted the perils of industrialization, deforestation, and pollution, while celebrating the importance of biodiversity, healthy ecosystems, and sustainable living. Each piece carried a message—urgent yet hopeful—that humanity still has a chance to heal the planet through collective responsibility.
Lawmakers present at the event acknowledged the power of these youthful voices. Representing the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Michael Etaba, a senior legislative aide emphasized that climate change has become one of the most critical threats to human survival. He noted that the children’s exhibition served as a vital reminder of the need for careful and responsible development practices, including sustainable urbanization and natural resource management.
Etaba assured participants that the outcomes and recommendations from the event would be presented to the National Assembly for deliberation, signaling a step toward integrating youth perspectives into Nigeria’s climate policies and legislation.
“Our Planet, Our Promise”: The Children’s Manifesto
The highlight of the Abuja gathering was the unveiling of a Children’s Climate Manifesto titled “Our Planet, Our Promise.” The document captures the collective aspirations of young people for a greener, safer, and more inclusive planet.
In their manifesto, the children expressed their love for Earth’s wonders—the bright sun, green trees, blue oceans, and vibrant animals—while lamenting how human actions have brought suffering to the planet. They illustrated how deforestation, pollution, and wasteful consumption disrupt ecosystems and intensify extreme weather events such as floods and heatwaves.
The manifesto called for concrete action across several fronts:
- Tree planting and conservation, recognizing trees as “superheroes” that clean the air, regulate the climate, and support life.
- Transition to renewable energy, using sunlight and wind instead of fossil fuels to power homes, cars, and industries.
- Sustainable transportation, encouraging walking, cycling, carpooling, and public transport to reduce emissions.
- Waste reduction and recycling, promoting the “3Rs” — Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle — to combat pollution and overconsumption.
Above all, the children stressed that climate change is not just an adult issue. They declared themselves ready to contribute solutions, urging leaders to work with them, listen to their ideas, and include them in decision-making processes.
Their powerful message concluded with a promise:
“We are ready to work together, big and small, to create a green, sustainable planet where everyone can live safely and happily. This is our promise to Earth and to each other.”
Through artivism and collective advocacy, these children have demonstrated that the fight against climate change is not merely about science or policy—it is about justice, creativity, and shared responsibility. Their manifesto stands as both a call to action and a beacon of hope, reminding adults that the voices of children must be heard if humanity is to secure a truly sustainable future.
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