By Abbas Nazil
The University of Calabar has emerged as the overall winner in the tertiary institution category of the 2026 World Environment Day environmental competition in Cross River State, securing a cash prize of ₦1 million for its outstanding performance in sustainability and environmental advocacy initiatives.
The competition was organised by the Cross River State Ministry of Environment as part of activities marking the 2026 World Environment Day celebration, with a focus on promoting environmental sustainability, climate action, sanitation, and ecological stewardship among educational institutions across the state.
The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) came second in the tertiary category, receiving ₦700,000, while the University of Education and Entrepreneurship, Akamkpa, placed third and was awarded ₦500,000 for its environmental efforts.
In the secondary school category, UNICAL International Demonstration Secondary School emerged as the winner, earning ₦500,000 for its strong participation and environmental initiatives.
Hope Waddell Secondary School secured second position and received ₦300,000, while West African Peoples Institute came third and was awarded ₦200,000 for its performance in the competition.
Officials of the Ministry of Environment explained that participating institutions were evaluated based on their environmental projects, commitment to sanitation, tree-planting activities, climate awareness campaigns, and general contributions to sustainability within their campuses and surrounding communities.
The awards were presented during a formal ceremony held at the Metropolitan Hotel in Calabar as part of the 2026 World Environment Day celebrations, which also carried the theme “Urbanization and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future.”
The state government described the competition as part of broader efforts to encourage young people and academic institutions to take active roles in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development practices.
Stakeholders at the event commended the initiative, describing it as an important platform for strengthening environmental awareness and encouraging practical action on climate-related issues among students and educators.
They noted that engaging educational institutions in environmental competitions helps build a culture of responsibility and innovation that can support long-term climate resilience efforts in the state.
The Commissioner for Environment, Obol Moses Osogi, PhD, praised all participating schools for their commitment, describing them as frontline ambassadors of environmental sustainability and climate consciousness in Cross River State.
He emphasized that such initiatives are essential for instilling environmental values in young people and ensuring that future leaders are equipped to respond effectively to climate and ecological challenges.
Organisers also highlighted that Hope Waddell Training Institute retained its reputation as a top-performing institution in environmental awareness programmes following its consistent participation and past achievements.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to expanding environmental education initiatives and strengthening partnerships with academic institutions to promote greener practices and climate-resilient communities across Cross River State.
