In a display of civic responsibility and environmental consciousness, the SPE University of Lagos (Unilag) Student Chapter recently spearheaded the “Keep Lagos Clean Initiative,” a community service project focused on promoting a cleaner, more sustainable Lagos.
Driven by the belief that a clean and eco-friendly environment is essential for sustainability and the advancement of cleaner energy, the initiative underscores the role engineers play in community management.
As emerging engineers, the students of SPE Unilag understand that their work extends beyond the realms of textbooks and laboratories. Recognizing the direct impact of environmental conditions on community health and sustainable development, they embarked on the cleanup mission with a dual purpose: to promote a sustainable and healthy environment and reiterate the importance of collective responsibility. Their efforts demonstrate their commitment to fostering a cleaner, safer, and more energy-efficient future.
The initiative zeroed in on two major markets in Yaba, Lagos: the Bariga and Shomolu areas known for their bustling economic activity and, consequently, significant waste accumulation.
By selecting these high-traffic locations, the SPE Unilag Chapter not only tackled a visible environmental challenge but also set a precedent for maintaining cleanliness in areas critical to the city’s commerce and daily life.
In these markets, volunteers distributed cleaning supplies, engaged with local vendors, and organized waste-collection drives. The goal was to create a ripple effect, encouraging residents and business owners alike to take ownership of their surroundings. This hands-on approach allowed the team to witness firsthand the transformation of the community spaces, fostering a sense of pride among locals.
The success of the initiative was amplified by the support of SPE Lagos Section and strategic collaborations with key local agencies. The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Nigerian police force lent their support, ensuring the cleanup operations were conducted smoothly and securely. Their involvement not only facilitated the logistical aspects of the project but also reinforced the message that community cleanliness is a shared responsibility across all sectors of society.
The presence of LAWMA provided essential expertise in waste-management techniques, while the Nigerian police force ensured that the operations were safe and free from disruptions. This partnership model demonstrated the power of community collaboration, where government agencies and civic-minded groups work together towards a common goal.
Driven by the positive response and tangible impact of the cleanup, the SPE Unilag Chapter is already planning its next outreach initiative.
The future project will focus on the Girls Correctional Center in Idi Araba, extending the spirit of community service to a vulnerable segment of the population. This initiative aims not only to improve the physical environment of the center but also to instill hope and empowerment through acts of service and mentorship.
This approach illustrates the chapter members' commitment to using their engineering skills and passion for sustainability to make a broader societal impact. By reaching out to institutions like the Girls Correctional Center, the SPE Unilag Chapter is helping to break down social stigmas and promote inclusivity, underscoring the belief that every community deserves a safe and nurturing environment.
For the students of SPE Unilag, this project is more than a one-time cleanup; it is a catalyst for ongoing social transformation. By taking proactive steps in waste management and environmental conservation, they are setting a standard for responsible engineering practices.
Their work reminds us that the health of our cities is inextricably linked to the efforts of its citizens. As these young engineers continue to lead by example, they contribute to a legacy that champions sustainability, cleaner energy, and community empowerment, which are all values that will undoubtedly shape a brighter future for Lagos and beyond.
In a world where environmental challenges are ever-present, initiatives like these offer hope and a clear call to action: a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future is within reach when communities come together with purpose and passion.
Cleopatra Folakemi Stmichael is a 400-level petroleum and gas engineering student at the University of Lagos and an active member of SPE University of Lagos (Unilag) Student Chapter. Passionate about environmental sustainability and community development, her interests include exploring how engineering solutions can contribute to environmental conservation. As SPE Unilag’s assistant general secretary, her mission is to raise awareness about the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges.
Kasumu Samson Olasunkami is a professional photographer specializing in documentary, portrait, and event photography and a 400-level student at the University of Lagos Nigeria, studying petroleum and gas engineering. Over the years, he has worked with notable clients such as Pfizer Nigeria, AMVCA (2022 & 2024), and is a member of the University of Lagos Engineering Faculty’s media team. He serves as the departmental photographer for the SPE University of Lagos Student Chapter.
Beyond photography, he has a strong interest in mentorship within the oil and gas industry, blending his technical knowledge with a passion for career development.