In a strategic effort to strengthen climate resilience, empower young Nigerians, and promote nature-based solutions, the Nigerian Environmental Study Action Team (NEST), with support from the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), held a transformative youth engagement programme at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State.
The project, titled “Scaling Up Climate Resilience and Nature Solutions in Communities through Practice, Strengthening Inclusiveness, and Advocacy in Nigeria”, aims to support Nigeria’s climate adaptation targets by focusing on community-driven approaches. The event marked the rainforest ecological zone’s pilot scheme and sought to raise youth consciousness on climate action and forest conservation.
The HOD, FOREM supervises tree planting by Ibeku High School students in the relic forest.
Partnering with the Department of Forestry and Environmental Management (FOREM) at MOUAU and the Abia State Department of Forestry, NEST implemented a multi-pronged initiative that engaged both university students and secondary school pupils through advocacy, competitions, and hands-on conservation experiences.
A sensitisation rally flagged off the programme, sweeping through the campus from the College of Natural Resources and Environmental Management to all faculties. The rally highlighted upcoming activities including a student essay contest, a quiz for secondary schools, and a forest conservation tour.
Some Holy Rosary Secondary School students in a group photo during the relic forest tour.
In the university-wide essay competition, students were invited to reflect on the theme: “The Challenge of Forest Degradation and Climate Change in Nigeria: Transforming and Empowering the Nigerian Youth for Sustainable Solutions.” Submissions were evaluated by academic experts from the Department of Forestry.
At the inter-secondary school quiz competition, six schools competed on topics covering climate change, agriculture, and environmental management. The quiz tested not only knowledge but also speed and teamwork, with questions designed to align with real-world ecological challenges.
Participants later embarked on a guided tour of MOUAU’s Relic Forest, led by FOREM experts. They engaged in seedling planting of indigenous tree species—a symbolic and practical action aimed at nurturing environmental stewardship among the youth.
Held at the Senator Anyim Pius Anyim Auditorium, the award ceremony commenced with opening prayers and remarks by Dr Benson Nwajiobi, Acting Head of FOREM. He expressed gratitude to the university leadership, NEST, and all participating schools, urging Nigerian youths to take an active role in reversing the climate crisis.
Professor Emmanuel Nzegbule, the project coordinator for NEST, praised MOUAU stakeholders for preparing future leaders in environmental conservation. He called on youths to consider careers in natural resources management, stressing the urgency of climate-smart interventions.
Speaking on behalf of the NEST chairman, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba, Prof. Nzegbule reiterated the importance of youth enlightenment in climate discourse. He described forests as critical infrastructure in climate mitigation and adaptation, proposing afforestation efforts as bold solutions even for desert regions.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Nneoma Obasi, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability and emphasised the strategic importance of youth leadership in climate action.
Holy Rosary Secondary School, Umuahia, clinched the first prize in the quiz competition, earning a ₦100,000 cheque. Ibeku High School and MOUAU Demonstration Secondary School placed second and third, receiving ₦65,000 and ₦40,000 respectively.
In the essay competition, Eji Evangeline Chika (College of Education) emerged winner with 20 points, followed by Ejim Uchechukwu Emmanuel (College of Veterinary Medicine) and Ezimah Promise Samuel (College of Natural Resources and Environmental Management) with 19 and 18 points respectively. Prizes were presented by Dr Mrs Nkeiruka Charity Mbanasor, the University Registrar.
Following the indoor activities, students and dignitaries explored various FOREM facilities including the Ecology and Wildlife Unit, where participants interacted with species such as crocodiles. The Relic Forest tour also educated visitors on biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and conservation strategies.
A stop at the Apiculture Unit exposed guests to bee farming and honey production, sparking interest in alternative income-generating green ventures. Though time constraints hindered a visit to the Nursery Unit, the tour left participants visibly inspired.
The programme’s conclusion was marked by a brief address from Dr Nwajiobi, who expressed appreciation to school representatives and honoured them with modest tokens. He thanked his team for their commitment to environmental education and youth empowerment.
Key lessons from the initiative include the evident gap in climate awareness among youths and their eagerness to gain relevant skills when given the opportunity. The university’s openness to continued collaboration with climate-focused organisations was also noted.
By directly involving young people in environmental advocacy and practice, the project strengthened the foundation for a new generation of climate champions—equipped with knowledge, inspired by action, and committed to sustainable change.
