Optimus Bank, a Nigerian financial institution, has organized a beach clean-up exercise at a beach space in Lekki, Lagos, as part of its "PROTECT OUR COAST" campaign to promote environmental responsibility. The initiative, held in partnership with Shoreline Euphoria Limited and RESWAYE, brought together employees, volunteers, community members, and stakeholders to remove waste from the shoreline and raise awareness about plastic pollution. The clean-up was conducted to mark World Cleanup Day 2026.
The exercise resulted in the collection of approximately two tonnes of waste and marine litter, including plastic bottles, sachet-water nylon, food packaging, cans, glass, and other solid waste. The collected materials were separated on site into recyclable and non-recyclable streams. Recyclable materials were channeled through appropriate recycling and resource-recovery pathways, while non-recyclable waste was evacuated and disposed of through proper waste-management channels in partnership with the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA).
The initiative is part of Optimus Bank's "Impact Starts with Us" platform, which supports programs focused on environment, education, healthcare, and empowerment. Dr. Ademola Odeyemi, Managing Director/CEO of Optimus Bank, emphasized the bank's commitment to environmental responsibility, stating that protecting the environment is crucial for building healthier and more resilient communities. The "PROTECT OUR COAST" campaign reflects the bank's belief in practical action, collaboration, and shared responsibility.
The beach clean-up provided an opportunity for Optimus Bank employees to contribute directly to addressing an environmental challenge. The partnership with Shoreline Euphoria Limited and RESWAYE highlights the importance of collaboration in tackling environmental challenges. By bringing together a corporate organization, environmental-focused partners, volunteers, and community stakeholders, the initiative demonstrated how collective action can contribute to cleaner and healthier shared spaces.
Morolake Philip, Head of Corporate Communications at Optimus Bank, emphasized the importance of individual actions in protecting the environment. The initiative included environmental awareness sessions and sensitization on plastic pollution and marine litter, followed by community engagement with beach users, residents, and local stakeholders. Waste segregation and recycling demonstrations showed participants how recyclable materials can be separated and recovered.
Volunteer environmental education sessions covered responsible waste handling and the protection of coastal ecosystems. Through these activities, Optimus Bank promoted responsible waste disposal and circular-economy practices beyond the event. The bank remains committed to working with relevant partners and stakeholders to promote practical action, inclusion, and responsible business, while contributing to healthier and more sustainable communities.
The "PROTECT OUR COAST" campaign is a significant step towards promoting environmental responsibility and action against coastal pollution. Optimus Bank's commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its efforts to engage employees, volunteers, and community stakeholders in environmental initiatives. The bank's "Impact Starts with Us" platform is a testament to its dedication to creating a positive impact in the communities it serves.
Key points
- Optimus Bank collected 2 tonnes of waste during the cleanup exercise.
- The initiative was conducted in partnership with Shoreline Euphoria Limited and RESWAYE.
- The bank's "PROTECT OUR COAST" campaign aims to promote environmental responsibility and action against coastal pollution.
