In Ondo State, Nigeria, a youth-led initiative is making waves by tackling one of the region’s most persistent environmental threats: plastic pollution in rivers. The “Plastic-Free Waters: River Rescue in Ondo State” campaign is mobilizing young people to clean polluted rivers, raise environmental awareness, and drive sustainable change in local communities.

With over 50 volunteers, the campaign recently carried out cleanups at three rivers: Owena, Ala, and Ominla, removing more than 800 kilograms of plastic waste. This initiative highlights how grassroots action, powered by youth leadership, can create real and lasting environmental impact.

The Local Impact of a Global Problem

Plastic pollution is a growing global crisis, but its effects are most deeply felt in local communities. In Ondo State, plastic bags, bottles, and single-use packaging clog rivers and drainage systems, causing flooding, water contamination, and health risks.

According to the UN Environment Programme, Africa produces 70 million tonnes of waste annually, with a significant portion ending up in rivers and other water bodies. In regions with limited waste infrastructure, like many parts of Nigeria, plastic pollution has become both a public health and ecological emergency.

🌍 Join the Movement: Every plastic bottle removed is a step toward protecting lives, livelihoods, and ecosystems.

Youth Taking the Lead

The Plastic-Free Waters campaign was founded by Adewale Akinfolarin, an Environmental health officer and youth advocate passionate about climate action.

“We are not waiting for change, we are creating it. When we clean our rivers, we’re restoring our communities and protecting our future.” – Adewale Akinfolarin

The campaign’s strength lies in its youth-driven approach. Volunteers ranging from students to early-career professionals lead cleanup activities, educate community members, and promote sustainable habits. Wearing branded green vests labeled TEAM LEAD, VOLUNTEER, or ENVIRONMENTAL AMBASSADOR, they stand as symbols of action and unity.

💡 Be Inspired: Youth leadership shows that change begins when we roll up our sleeves and act.

Clean-Up in Action

On June 29, 2025, the campaign held its largest cleanup to date. Over 50 volunteers gathered to clear plastic waste from the Owena, Ala, and Ominla rivers. Armed with gloves, trash bags, and community support, they worked throughout the day and successfully removed more than 800 kg of plastic waste.

“The energy was amazing,” says Tobi, a 22-year-old team leader. “We weren’t just cleaning—we were making a statement that youth can lead change.”

Local support amplified the effort. Elders brought refreshments, and children joined to help collect bottles. What began as a cleanup transformed into a celebration of environmental stewardship and community collaboration.

More Than Just Cleaning

Beyond cleanups, the campaign focuses on education and behavior change. Volunteers host sessions in schools and community centers to teach waste reduction and proper disposal practices. Plans are underway to:

• Establish environmental clubs in schools

• Train students as eco-monitors

• Introduce eco-bricks made from plastic bottles

“Cleaning up is important,” says Micheal, a volunteer. “But if we don’t stop the waste at the source, we’ll be back here in a month.”

The campaign emphasizes that prevention is just as important as removal, focusing on long-term awareness, innovation, and youth empowerment.

Digital Engagement and Visibility

To amplify their message, the team runs digital campaigns on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook using hashtags like #PlasticFreeWaters and #RiverRescueOndo.

By sharing before-and-after transformation photos, volunteer stories, and event updates, they inspire action beyond their immediate community. This visibility has begun attracting attention from local media, NGOs, and potential donors interested in supporting youth-led sustainability efforts.

📣 Raise Your Voice: Share the campaign online and help spread the message beyond Ondo.

Looking Ahead

The success of the campaign’s first phase has inspired bold plans:

• Organizing more river cleanups across Ondo State

• Training youth in plastic recycling and eco-solutions

• Launching an “Adopt-a-River” program

• Partnering with local government for better waste management systems

But continued success requires support through volunteering, funding, and partnerships.

How You Can Support

Whether you’re a student, business owner, policymaker, or concerned citizen, you can be part of this movement:

• 🤝 Volunteer: Sign up for cleanup events or school outreach.

• 💚 Donate: Help cover equipment, logistics, and safety materials.

• 🌍 Partner: Collaborate with the campaign to scale sustainability projects.

• 📢 Share: Amplify the message online and within your community.

Conclusion: A Cleaner Future, Led by Youth

The Plastic-Free Waters campaign proves that youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the solution today. By stepping into leadership roles, mobilizing communities, and restoring rivers, these young change-makers are building a cleaner, healthier, and more hopeful future for Ondo State.

Support River Rescue today because every river saved is a future secured.