Deborah Adegbulugbe: Inspiring Lagos students to act on climate change through art

Deborah Modupe Adegbulugbe leads a community effort to inspire change in Lagos, a city affected by overpopulation, and environmental problems such as flash floods. Deborah’s aim, as a radiation and health physics expert, educator, environmental campaigner, and mother, is to encourage children to see themselves as active players in the fight against climate change.

She visits schools within Lagos, from Mushin, and Ikeja to Ajah, Surulere, and Makoko, providing pupils with writing materials, art supplies, and a simple question: How would you protect your environment from the effects of climate change? Deborah and her team have visited over nine schools in Lagos, reaching out to around 1,289 students and 584 teachers over the years.

Children use writing and pictures to express their ideas in these workshops. They demonstrate creative thinking by imaging, drawing and writing solutions like recycling systems, tree-lined roads, solar-powered houses, and electric cars Deborah believes that these pieces of art serve as significant reminders of the potential that exists in young brains. She says, “Every time I look at their drawings, I’m reminded that great things start from small places.”

She recently trained students at P&P College, Ilasamaja, Mushin in the making of bird feeders using recycled materials. As they worked, she explained how reusing and recycling things around us can help the restoration of nature’s balance.

“She interacts with the students; she goes beyond giving lectures, that’s what makes her outreach stand out,” Principal, P&P College, Ilasamaja, Mushin, Mr Oladapo Adeyeni said.

She reminds the children that “the effects of climate change can feel intimidating. However, every significant change starts with small actions, and you are currently making a change.” Deborah’s responsibility as a mother and teacher inspires her passion. She says, “I think about my children every day, I want them to enjoy a green and vibrant environment. A clean Lagos is where they deserve to grow.” Deborah maintains her sense of hope and believes that “there is no limit to what we can achieve if we utilize our resources to care for our environment.”

Deborah’s efforts act as an indication that seemingly small actions can contribute to huge change as she continues her journey across Lagos. Whether through a child’s drawing or a community cleaning, she is setting the standard for a greener, healthier Lagos—one child at a time.

She concluded the workshop by saying “Every Lagosian, child or adult has a role to play. “By working together, we can create a city where the environment is as vibrant as its people.”