FABE launches Africa’s first sustainability institute to boost green economy
Foundation for a Better Environment (FABE) has partnered with Deloitte to establish the FABE Institute of Sustainability (FIS) —the first sustainability institution in Africa’s most populous nation — to boost the green and circular economy.
The FABE Institute of Sustainability is a forward-thinking educational hub dedicated to equipping learners with the knowledge, tools, and innovative skills needed to drive the green economy sector.
At a virtual launch in Lagos Thursday, Temitope Okunnu, chief executive officer of FABE, said the institute aims to promote environmental sustainability, culture and a sustainable-conscious lifestyle among Nigerians.
“Powered by Deloitte Africa, FIS stands as Nigeria’s first sustainability-focused e-learning institute — a bridge between knowledge and action,” she explained.
“This began in classrooms, school upcycled eco gardens, and communities where we taught children that upcycling, recycling, and sustainability are not concepts, but a lifestyle,” Okunnu added.
According to her, it has always been the dream of FABE to build a school where people can learn and understand environmental sustainability.
“The FABE Institute of Sustainability is that dream come alive — an e-learning platform built to make climate literacy, circular economy, and sustainability education accessible to everyone.”
She noted that the institute is established for Nigerians to help solve global issues locally, noting that, “because when people understand the why and how of sustainable living, real change begins”.
“Today we are celebrating more than just the launch of the Institute of Sustainability, but the realisation of a vision that began almost 10 years ago,” she said.
In her keynote address, Abena Biney, Deloitte West Africa chief sustainability officer, said that the partnership is not just part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), but it is imperative for the audit firm to promote sustainability in Africa.
“It is my utmost pleasure as we celebrate the launch of the FABE Institute of Sustainability. This is a milestone in advancing sustainable climate change education and raising awareness across our region,” she noted.
Lauding the initiative, Biney noted that sustainability is an integral part of Deloitte. “Sustainability is something we at Deloitte hold very close and dear to our hearts. We believe in sustainability and that there will be gains when more people are informed.”
The circular economy is valued globally at $10 billion, but lack of adequate knowledge keeps many Nigerians from tapping into its gains.
Titilayo Oshodi, special adviser on Climate Change & Circular Economy to the governor of Lagos State, applauded FABE Foundation on the great feat of setting up a sustainability institute as well as creating awareness on the green economy.
“We are moving out of outdated models to teach sustainability, through innovation and hands-on experience, where waste becomes wealth and where learners do not just memorise climate solutions.”
Oshodi highlighted Lagos’ drive in climate education. “In Lagos, this is the spirit that drives our secular economy agenda. We are building a city that does not just see change but adapts to change. Sustainable development is not a luxury but a necessity for Nigeria’s shared prosperity.”
Lauding FABE Foundation’s exploits, Desmond Majekodunmi, executive director of Lekki Urban Forest and Animal Sanctuary Initiative (LUFASI Nature Park), said it is the right step in the right direction
“This launch is just the beginning; we are now on the springboard of environmental awareness education that will penetrate deep into the conscience of those with whom we come in contact,” he said.
Majekodunmi said that he has high hopes that the launch of the FIS will drive sustainable awareness to schools and prick the conscience of everyone trying to understand the circular sector.
