By Ambrose Obioma Okehi (News Emperor)
The Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) has launched a team of “Green Border Ambassadors” at the Customs Secondary School, Idiroko, Ogun State.
The historical launch carried out by the wife of the Computer-General of Customs and the National President of COWA, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi was aimed at merging national security with environmental development.
This initiative was also to mark a significant shift in COWA’s mission, focusing on environmental health and sustainability.
Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, Acting Customs Area Controller for Ogun I, described the initiative as a historic milestone, aligning with global environmental goals. He emphasized that the prosperity of border towns depends on ecological health, trade, and security.
The program empowers young people, appointing students as ambassadors to champion sustainable practices. COWA aims to inspire a ripple effect, extending environmental responsibility into surrounding communities.
Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, COWA’s National President, equally commended the Acting Comptroller for hosting the event and urged students to be environment ambassadors, taking care of trees planted in their school compound.
This initiative is part of COWA’s broader vision to restore ecosystems, empower women and youth, and strengthen community resilience against smuggling. The Green Border Initiative aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to global sustainability goals and the World Customs Organisation’s agenda.
The programme includes tree planting, community clean-ups, waste segregation demonstrations, and recycling hub training. COWA plans to establish a Sustainability and Innovation Centre, promoting renewable energy, recycling technology, and sustainable trade practices.
COWA’s Green Border Initiative has already gained momentum, with events held in Seme, Sokoto, and Abuja. The association aims to plant over 5,000 trees, train 1,000 women and youths in recycling and green enterprise, and establish solar-powered eco-hubs across Nigeria’s border regions.
The initiative has received support from government agencies, private sector partners, and international organizations, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Customs Organisation (WCO).