ACI harps on environmental sustainability at Africa SDGs Environmental Sustainability Awards
Africa Cleanup Initiative, a foremost environmental NGO, has raised the bar on environmental sustainability at its environmental sustainability award, highlighting circular economy as key to climate resilience.
The award was part of activities to mark the climax of the 15th anniversary celebration of ACI in Lagos.
The theme of the event is : “Pathways to Sustainability: Advancing Circular Economy for a Climate-Resilient Future.”
Speaking at the event, Dr Alex Akhigbe, Founder, ACI, said:
“As we welcome you to the Africa SDG & Environmental Sustainability Awards 2025, we are reminded of a vital truth: the choices we make today determine the future we inherit tomorrow.”
Akhigbe said that the 2025 theme underscores the urgency of reimagining how we produce, consume, and live.
“It calls on every one of us — policy makers, businesses, environmentalists, youth leaders, and everyday citizens — to become architects of solutions that serve both people and the planet.
We are gathered here not only to recognize excellence but to spotlight the impact of bold action.
“The individuals and organizations we honor tonight exemplify what it means to move from intention to implementation — to walk the talk in climate responsibility, innovation, and sustainable development.
“To our awardees: thank you for being lights on the pathway to a greener future. To our partners and sponsors: thank you for investing in this vision.
“To our guests: may this event be more than a celebration — may it spark new ideas, deepen your commitment, and remind you that sustainability begins with each of us,” Akhigbe said.
He urged everyone to keep building resilient systems, closing the loop on waste, and creating a future where no one is left behind.
In his good will message, Dr Ola Oresanya, Commissioner for Environment, Ogun State, commended ACI for the vision and passion of focusing on environmental sustainability at a time were many feared to dare.
Oresanya recalled the humble beginnings of ACI at a time when he was saddled with the responsibility of handling waste in Lagos state as the managing director of Lagos State Waste Management Authority.
According to him, the interventions of ACI in Ajegunle and subsequently other LGAs in Lagos made his work as LAWMA helmsman a lot easier.
He noted that noit many people are recognised in the field of environmental sustainability.
He charged ACI to do more in the creation of jobs in the sustainability and circular economy value chain.
He expressed appreciation to ACI for deeming him worthy of an award in the Environmental Sustainability Award Category.
In His keynote address, Prof. Gerald Okeke, Professor of Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability, underscored the importance of maintaining safety to mitigate the impact of climate change.
Okeke said that to reduce the risk of climate change, the following safety measures should be adopted:
“Do all your domestic activities and other errands during early hours of the morning. Avoid going out as from 12.00 p.m to 4.00 p.m, as radiation from the sun is usually at its peak that period.
” Constant rehydration: juice; sport beverage and water. Avoid strenuous task that may lead to heat exhaustion. If you are a worker, ensure to take breaks, take more fluids to remain hydrated accordingly.
“Endeavour to plant more trees around your environment to attract more fresh oxygen. Do not exercise under hot sun. When trekking, take rest under trees or nearby buildings to recuperate,”
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Minister of Health on ‘One Health,’ Dr Idowu Adegoke, said that he has been part of what ACI had been doing in the last 10 years and more.
Adegoke praised the NGO for its consistency, drive and passion for the environment.
He noted that the fight against climate change or environmental degradation is not a sprint or a marathon, adding that ACI has exemplified it by their actions in caring for the environment.
“They go into communities were no one dared to go. Over the years, we have seen ACI come up with the community based ideas, like the one using revenue from waste to pay school fees.
Newsmen reports that various people received various categories of award.
The event brought together leading voices in sustainable development, including policymakers, environmental experts, private sector champions, youth leaders, and civil society, united by a common purpose: to drive bold, innovative action for a greener, more equitable future.
The event also served as a platform for new ideas, partnerships, and commitments to climate-smart growth.
It highlighted the importance of building resilient systems, closing the loop on waste, and ensuring that no one is left behind in the transition to sustainability.
