By Abbas Nazil
Nigerian Tulip International Colleges (NTIC), Wuse II, and Government Secondary School (GSS), Kubwa, emerged joint winners of the 2026 Schools Dialogue and Presentation on Climate Change and Sustainable Future held in Abuja as part of activities marking World Environment Day.
The event, organised by the C-Circle Foundation for Sustainable Health and Environment, brought together students from 12 secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to discuss climate change, sustainability and environmental solutions through research presentations and dialogue sessions.
The organisers adopted a dialogue-based format for this year’s programme, replacing the competitive debate model used in previous editions.
Students examined key environmental challenges and proposed practical solutions aimed at promoting sustainable development and climate resilience.
Speaking at the event, Founder of the C-Circle Foundation for Sustainable Health and Environment, Dr. Chimere May Ohajinwa, said the initiative was designed to increase environmental awareness among young people and equip them with the knowledge and skills required to become future environmental advocates.
She noted that participating schools were assigned topics covering climate change-induced farmer-herder conflicts, food insecurity, water contamination, rising temperatures, public health concerns and sustainable agriculture.
According to her, climate change has become a reality affecting everyday life through rising food prices, environmental degradation and resource-related conflicts.
Ohajinwa said the programme intentionally positioned students at the centre of climate conversations, allowing them to educate adults through evidence-based research and informed discussions.
She added that the exercise also helped participants develop leadership, teamwork, public speaking, critical thinking and research skills.
In a keynote address delivered on her behalf by Mrs. Dolapo John-Akhigbe, Principal Scientific Officer in the Department of Climate Change, Director of the Department of Climate Change at the Federal Ministry of Environment, Dr. Iniobong Abiola-Awe, described climate change as the defining challenge of the current generation.
She called for urgent and inclusive action to address its growing impacts on communities and economies.
Abiola-Awe said Nigeria remains highly vulnerable to climate change despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions.
She highlighted government efforts to tackle the challenge through the Climate Change Act 2021, which established the National Council on Climate Change.
She also noted Nigeria’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 29 per cent unconditionally and 52 per cent conditionally by 2030, while pursuing a net-zero emissions target by 2060.
The director urged students to see climate change as an opportunity to innovate, transform communities and contribute to a sustainable future.
Representing the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), Environmental Health Officer Omenta Rachael C. encouraged Nigerians to adopt environmentally friendly practices and reduce activities that contribute to pollution.
She cautioned against excessive use of chemical fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides, warning that they pose risks to human health, agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability.
One of the major highlights of the programme was the participation of students from the School for the Blind and the School for the Deaf, underscoring the organisers’ commitment to inclusive environmental education.
Other participating schools included His Excellency International School, Funtaj International School, Government Science Secondary School Tunga Maje, School for the Gifted Gwagwalada, Government Girls Secondary School Dutse, Government Secondary School Gwarinpa Lifecamp, Stella Maris College and NAOWA College.
Topics presented ranged from climate-smart agriculture and urban greening to circular economy practices, sustainable transportation, sanitation, environmental health and inclusive education.
The panel of judges commended NTIC and GSS Kubwa for the quality of their research, innovative ideas, effective presentations and practical recommendations for addressing climate-related challenges.
Organisers said the programme successfully strengthened climate awareness, enhanced students’ research and communication skills and inspired participants to become ambassadors of environmental sustainability in their communities.
The event was held at Cilantro Restaurant in Abuja, with the venue’s green surroundings complementing discussions on environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The C-Circle Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to advancing environmental education, youth leadership and community engagement as part of efforts to build a climate-resilient and sustainable future.
