Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to reduce food waste and adopt sustainable practices to protect the environment.

Mrs Tinubu made the call in a message marking the 2026 World Cleanup Day, observed on Sunday, September 20.

This year’s commemoration is themed “From Clean Plates to Clean Cities,” with global focus on food waste and its impact on the environment.

The First Lady said the focus on food waste is particularly important at a time when climate change, conflicts and other global challenges continue to disrupt food production and supply.

She said keeping the environment clean should go beyond clearing refuse from streets and public spaces.

According to her, individuals and communities must also work to reduce the amount of waste they generate from their homes and businesses. She urged Nigerians to become more responsible in how they purchase, prepare, consume and preserve food.

Mrs Tinubu advised households to buy only what they need and prepare only what they can consume to minimise waste.

She also encouraged proper disposal of refuse and the adoption of sustainable practices that protect the environment.

“I encourage households, businesses, and communities to reduce food waste, dispose of refuse properly, and adopt more sustainable practices that protect our environment,” she said.

The First Lady noted that food waste contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and puts additional pressure on natural resources and waste-management systems.

She said data from the United Nations shows about 1.05 billion tonnes of food were wasted globally in 2022, underscoring the scale of the challenge.

Mrs Tinubu stressed that tackling food waste is not just an environmental issue but also a food security issue. She said reducing waste would help conserve resources, lower costs for families and ensure more food is available for those in need.

The First Lady called for collective action from all stakeholders, including governments, private sector, civil society and families.

The first lady added that cleaner cities must begin with more sustainable habits in homes, businesses and communities.

“Through our collective efforts, we can build cleaner, healthier communities for present and future generations,” Mrs Tinubu added.

She urged Nigerians to use the occasion of World Cleanup Day to reflect on their consumption habits and commit to more responsible living.

World Cleanup Day is observed annually on September 20 following a 2023 United Nations General Assembly resolution establishing the international day.

The day is aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing global action for environmental sustainability and cleaner communities.