By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has sensitised teachers and students from public secondary schools across the state on fire safety, waste management and environmental sustainability as part of efforts to promote safer learning environments.
The sensitisation programme was held on Sunday, 1 February, 2026 at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, where students and teachers participated in practical and interactive sessions on waste sorting, the use of fire extinguishers and emergency response procedures.
The initiative was designed to strengthen safety consciousness and environmental responsibility within school communities.
Presentations at the event were delivered by officials of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Services, who addressed participants on the circular economy, recycling practices and effective fire prevention strategies, among other key topics.
Speaking at the programme, the state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Ali-Balogun, underscored the need for collective action in building a safer and more sustainable future.
He explained that the initiative was aimed at empowering students to serve as safety ambassadors in their schools and communities.
“This programme is designed to empower our students to become safety ambassadors by promoting environmental awareness and safety practices in their schools and communities,” Ali-Balogun said.
He commended the students for taking proactive steps towards proper waste management and fire prevention, noting that simple daily habits could make a significant difference.
“Simple actions such as switching off electrical appliances at home and in schools help to ensure the safety of lives and property,” he said, adding that “a safer environment begins with individuals, and the time to act is now.”
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Abisola
Dokunmu-Adegbite, highlighted the importance of maintaining a clean and safe school environment to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
She described the programme as timely and critical, given the direct impact of environmental and safety issues on schools and surrounding communities.
“A clean, safe, and well-managed school environment is essential for effective teaching and meaningful learning,” Dokunmu-Adegbite stated.
She further stressed the need for collaboration among students, teachers and school staff to maintain safety across school facilities.
“Students, teachers and staff must work together to keep classrooms, hostels, laboratories, libraries, playgrounds and school grounds clean and safe,” she said, warning that “improper waste disposal can lead to unhealthy environments, disease outbreaks and environmental damage.”
The sensitisation programme forms part of the state government’s broader strategy to embed safety awareness and sustainable practices within the education system.
