Dr. Alex Otti
Executive Governor, Abia State
(Award for Energy Transition)
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has taken commendable strides in leading Nigeria’s energy transition journey, setting a precedent for subnational governments in Africa. Recognizing the urgency to shift from fossil fuels to cleaner energy, the state has implemented progressive policies and projects aimed at expanding access to renewable energy.
From solar-powered schools and healthcare centres to mini-grid installations in rural communities, Abia has shown a commitment to democratizing clean energy access. These initiatives have not only reduced reliance on diesel generators but have also cut down carbon emissions significantly.
Abia’s Energy Transition Plan also includes youth engagement and skill development in the renewable energy sector, empowering the next generation to actively participate in Nigeria’s green economy. Their efforts align with the national and global goals for net-zero emissions.
In recognition of his vision, leadership, and impactful policies for a cleaner energy future in Nigeria, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has been selected as the winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Energy Transition.
Tantita Security Services
(Award for Environmental Security)
Tantita Security Services has stood at the frontline of environmental security, particularly in the fight against illegal oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. Their work has directly contributed to the reduction of oil spills and restoration of natural ecosystems in the region.
Tantita’s surveillance and rapid-response operations have curtailed pollution caused by illicit oil activities. These efforts not only protect Nigeria’s critical biodiversity but also safeguard the livelihoods of coastal and riverine communities heavily dependent on healthy marine ecosystems.
Beyond enforcement, Tantita has collaborated with environmental stakeholders and government bodies to push for cleaner and safer practices in oil-rich regions. Their work has saved billions of naira in lost oil revenue while simultaneously preserving Nigeria’s natural capital.
For their courageous and vital role in preserving the environment through proactive security measures, we proudly present Tantita Security Services as the winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Environmental Security.
Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf
Executive Governor, Kano State
(Award for Water, Sanitation and Hygiene – WASH)
Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf has taken bold steps in improving access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services for its population. Recognising the direct link between public health and environmental well-being, the state has launched comprehensive WASH programs targeting both urban and rural areas.
Through partnerships with development agencies, Kano has upgraded water supply infrastructure, constructed modern public toilets, and introduced hygiene education campaigns in schools and communities. These efforts have led to a measurable reduction in water-borne diseases in the state.
The government’s community engagement model has empowered local actors to maintain water facilities and champion behavioural change around hygiene. Women and youth have been particularly involved, strengthening social ownership of WASH projects.
For his proactive approach to public health and sustainable development through WASH initiatives, Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabiru Yusuf has emerged as the winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Water, Sanitation and hygiene – WASH.
Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack
Head of Civil Service of the Federation
(Award for Eco-friendly Innovation)
Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack has demonstrated exceptional leadership in environmental sustainability by spearheading a groundbreaking initiative to make ten federal ministries numerous and agencies of government go paperless. This bold move has significantly reduced paper consumption, minimized waste, and promoted a more efficient and environmentally friendly way of working.
Her bold initiative has not only reduced the environmental impact of paper production and disposal but also promoted sustainable practices within the public sector in Nigeria. The environmental benefits of this initiative are substantial, contributing to a significant reduction in carbon footprint, deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, this stride showcases the visionary leadership of Mrs. Walson-Jack in driving sustainable development and environmental protection.
The impact of this initiative is multifaceted. It has led to a notable reduction in paper consumption aside from promoting environmental awareness and sustainability within the public sector and beyond, setting a new standard for environmental stewardship.
Specifically, the paperless initiative is significant as it reduces the environmental impact of paper production, consumption, and disposal, thereby contributing to a more sustainable future. Also, it improves productivity and efficiency through digital documentation and workflow management, allowing for more effective use of resources. More importantly, She has set a new standard for environmental stewardship in the public sector, and her commitment to sustainability serves as a model for government agencies and institutions to follow. By promoting environmental awareness and sustainability, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation has made a lasting impact on the nation’s environmental landscape.
In recognition of this outstanding contribution to environmental sustainability through her exemplary innovative policy, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack has been awarded nominated for the NatureNews HEAD award for Eco-friendly Innovation.
Alhaji Umaru Bago
Executive Governor, Niger State
(Award for Climate-resilient Agriculture)
Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Umaru Bago, has shown exemplary leadership in advancing agriculture and food security through innovative, climate-resilient policies. Under his administration, agricultural productivity has been enhanced through investment in irrigation, agroforestry, and improved crop varieties.
With a focus on empowering farmers, Governor Bago has facilitated access to fertilizers, markets, and climate information services. This has enabled smallholder farmers to adapt to changing climatic conditions while boosting food supply across the state and beyond.
The State Governor has also integrated youth into agriculture through training and agribusiness incubators, ensuring long-term food security and rural employment. These efforts directly contribute to national goals on ending hunger and malnutrition.
In recognition of these achievements in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agriculture, we present Governor Umaru Bago as the winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Climate-resilient Agriculture.
North East Development Commission
(Award for Climate Adaptation)
The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has played a pivotal role in enhancing climate adaptation across a region severely affected by conflict and environmental degradation. Their programs combine humanitarian support with climate-resilient solutions to rebuild livelihoods.
From afforestation projects to climate-smart agriculture, the NEDC has implemented projects that help communities adapt to desertification, erratic rainfall, and food insecurity. These interventions are tailored to the unique ecological and socio-economic realities of the North East.
Importantly, the NEDC’s focus on community ownership and local capacity-building has created sustainable adaptation pathways. Women, youth, and displaced populations have been included in planning and implementation phases.
For spearheading inclusive and sustainable climate adaptation strategies in one of Nigeria’s most vulnerable regions, we are glad to present the North East Development Commission (NEDC) as the winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Climate Adaptation.
Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal
Honourable Minister of Environment
(Award for Environmental Governance)
The Minister of Environment, Malam BalarabeAbbasLawal stands as an Environment Icon, having provided visionary leadership in shaping Nigeria’s environmental policies and engagements at both national and international levels. Under his stewardship, the ministry has launched transformative policies on pollution control, biodiversity protection, and climate change mitigation.
His advocacy at the global stage, especially at COP summits and international negotiations, has positioned Nigeria as a committed actor in the fight against environmental degradation. Locally, he has initiated programs like clean-up projects, tree planting campaigns, and enforcement of environmental standards.
Through consistent engagement with civil society, academia, and the private sector, the Minister has promoted environmental awareness and action among Nigerians, especially the youth. His reforms have helped streamline regulatory frameworks, making environmental governance more effective.
For his tireless dedication and influence in promoting sustainable development, we proudly announce the Minister of Environment, Malam BalarabeAbbasLawal, as the winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Environmental Governance.
Dangote Sugar
(Award for Climate Mitigation)
Dangote Sugar has emerged as a corporate leader in climate change mitigation, embedding sustainability into its industrial processes. Through the adoption of energy-efficient technologies and renewable alternatives in sugar production, the company has significantly reduced its carbon footprint.
In its drive for cleaner operations, Dangote Sugar has invested in green technologies, including biomass energy, efficient boilers, and waste recycling mechanisms. These initiatives have minimized greenhouse gas emissions while improving productivity.
Beyond operations, the company supports local farming communities through climate-smart agricultural practices. These efforts have helped build resilience among smallholder farmers and promoted environmental awareness in sugar-producing areas.
For its outstanding commitment to industrial sustainability and reducing emissions in one of Nigeria’s key manufacturing sectors, we present Dangote Sugar as the winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Climate Mitigation.
First Bank Plc
(Award for Climate Finance),
First Bank has consistently demonstrated leadership in climate finance, leveraging its resources to fund climate-resilient ventures and promote sustainability across Nigeria. Through green loans, sustainable investment portfolios, and eco-conscious mentorship programs, the bank is shaping Nigeria’s green economy.
The bank has supported renewable energy startups, sustainable agriculture initiatives, and circular economy projects that directly address environmental challenges. Their financial instruments are tailored to empower both individuals and businesses to adopt green technologies.
Beyond finance, First Bank mentors youth and entrepreneurs on sustainable business models. Their capacity-building programs are equipping a new generation with tools for climate-smart innovation.
For its strategic contributions to building a climate-resilient economy through finance and mentorship, we are proud to announce First Bank as the winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Climate Finance.
Arc. Blossom Eromosele
(Award for Environmental Design Innovation)
Arc. Eromosele is a trailblazing Nigerian architect who has made significant contributions to sustainable design. Her innovative project, AllSpace, showcases her commitment to environmental sustainability and community empowerment.
Her innovation, AllSpace, is a modular housing design that draws inspiration from traditional African architecture, specifically African huts. This innovative structure is crafted from recycled tarpaulin and aluminium, and powered by solar energy. The design provides a sustainable and scalable alternative for displaced communities, fostering a sense of familiarity and belonging.
The AllSpace project also provides job opportunities for refugees, promoting economic empowerment and self-sufficiency. It showcases the potential of sustainable materials and renewable energy in construction, reducing the environmental footprint of traditional building methods.
In conferring the NatureNews HEAD award for Environmental Design innovation on Arc. Blossom Eromosele, we hope to encourage more young Nigerians to provide innovative solutions that prioritise environmental sustainability, community empowerment, and social responsibility.
Gegele Yahya Olushola
(Award for Smart-energy Solution)
Gegele Olushola is a regenerative entrepreneur and the visionary founder of Premium Blue Economy Innovation and Investment Ltd, a pioneering organization dedicated to advancing sustainable and innovative economic solutions in Nigeria. With a focus on the principles of the Blue Economy, Olushola has been instrumental in driving projects that promote environmental sustainability, job creation, and social impact across various sectors, including waste management, renewable energy,mining , Education and agro-processing.
He is a strong advocate for youth empowerment and education, having spearheaded initiatives such as the Blue Campus App and Nigeria Blue Education Fables, which fosters critical thinking and entrepreneurial development among Nigerian youths. Under his leadership, Premium Blue Economy Innovation has partnered with global experts like Gunter Pauli and Professor Luigi Bistagnino, introducing systemic design and innovative solutions to Nigeria’s governance and private sector.
Olushola’s diverse activities include promoting the use of stone paper workbooks in schools,design Nigeria Blue Education Fables for Nigeria Educational systems, developing mushroom cultivation programs for women’s in rural areas , and integrating water hyacinth-based crafts into Nigeria’s economy to create sustainable livelihoods.
He also collaborates with international and local organizations to develop innovative approaches in areas like plastic waste-to-diesel conversion, smart Banana agriculture initiative, and regional planner for local economic .
Gegele Olushola continues to be a catalyst for transformative economic practices, leveraging partnerships and forward-thinking strategies to foster a regenerative and inclusive future for Nigeria and beyond.
National Park Service
(Award for Biodiversity Conservation)
Today, we recognize the unwavering efforts of the National Park Services (NPS) in the field of biodiversity and conservation. As custodians of Nigeria’s protected areas, the NPS has played a crucial role in safeguarding the country’s rich and diverse natural heritage. Through the management of several national parks, they have provided safe havens for endangered flora and fauna across the nation.
In a time when deforestation, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict are on the rise, the NPS has led with commitment, introducing community-based conservation models and encouraging eco-tourism as a tool for awareness and sustainability. These efforts have helped improve local livelihoods while ensuring long-term environmental protection.
The NPS has also advanced biodiversity research and monitoring, contributing to global databases and collaborations that strengthen conservation outcomes. Their partnership with both local and international conservation organizations has placed Nigeria on the map of global biodiversity hotspots.
For their exceptional commitment to preserving Nigeria’s ecological integrity and promoting wildlife conservation in a sustainable and inclusive manner, we proudly announce the National Park Service as winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Biodiversity Conservation.
Moniepoint
(Award for Eco-smart Banking)
Moniepoint has emerged as a transformative force in the realm of climate finance, aligning financial services with environmental sustainability. As a leading digital financial platform in Nigeria, Moniepoint has gone beyond profit margins to invest in solutions that reduce environmental impact and promote climate resilience.
By supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with access to green financing and promoting digital transactions, Moniepoint reduces the reliance on carbon-intensive banking systems. Their platform has effectively minimized the need for physical paperwork and in-person banking, reducing both waste and transportation-related emissions.
Moniepoint’s business model fosters inclusion while embedding sustainable practices at its core. The introduction of paperless operations, energy-efficient digital infrastructure, and education around sustainable finance showcases their commitment to climate-smart innovation.
In recognition of their leadership in integrating climate goals with digital finance to promote greener business practices, Moniepoint has been selected as the winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Eco-smart Banking.
Modern Shelter Limited
(Award for Eco-friendly Habitat)
Modern Shelter Limited has redefined real estate development by embedding environmental sustainability into its core business model. At a time when urban expansion often comes at the expense of green space and resource efficiency, Modern Shelter has chosen a different path—one that aligns development with ecological responsibility.
Through energy-efficient housing, eco-friendly materials, and waste management systems, the company has consistently demonstrated its commitment to lowering the carbon footprint of housing projects. Their housing designs promote energy conservation, proper water usage, and integration with the natural environment.
Modern Shelter has also championed environmental education among homeowners and stakeholders, fostering a culture of sustainability beyond construction. Their investment in green infrastructure has served as a benchmark in Nigeria’s housing sector.
For setting a shining example in the real estate sector and demonstrating that growth and sustainability can coexist, we are proud to present Modern Shelter Limited as the winner of NatureNews HEAD award for Eco-friendly Habitat.
Rita Idehai
(Award for Circular Economy)
Rita Idehai is a Nigerian geoscientist and social entrepreneur who’s making a significant impact in waste management and sustainability. She’s the founder and CEO of Ecobarter, a social enterprise that enables households to live waste-free by collecting recyclables and rewarding users with points redeemable for cash, products, or services.
Rita has developed innovative solutions to tackle Nigeria’s mounting waste management challenges, including Nigeria’s first indigenous Reverse Vending Machine (RVM).
Rita’s Ecobarter also empowers marginalized communities, including internally displaced women and informal waste pickers, by providing income opportunities, skills training, and dignified working conditions, thereby promoting circular economy by transforming waste into valuable resources, reducing environmental pollution, and creating economic opportunities.
Ecobarter collect waste from households in Abuja, Lagos, and Ogun states, transforming it into valuable resources. The enterprise creates jobs and provides skills training for waste management and recycling. Similarly, ecobarter runs sensitisation programs and social media campaigns to educate people on proper waste management practices.
In recognition of her pivotal climate action and scaling impact of Ecobarter, NatureNews is pleased to confer on Rita Idehai the HEAD award for Circular Economy.
