The University of Ibadan and the University of Ilorin have been named winners in the Climate Risk Research Challenge—Nigeria 2023 Prize Event, recognising their outstanding contributions to climate risk research.
Hosted by the University of Ibadan, the event celebrated innovative efforts in addressing climate risk and resilience in the agriculture sector.
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Oyebode Adebowale, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, Professor A. Olapegba, praised the event as a testament to pioneering research and dedication to tackling climate challenges.
“Our students have demonstrated remarkable ingenuity and resilience. Their work is a testament to the high standards of academic excellence at our institution,” he said.
The DEWSClim Innovators from the University of Ibadan, led by Peace Aburime, secured first place with a prize of $5,000. The second-place went to UNILORIN TEAM A, led by Jimoh-Faari Abdulkabir, winning $3,500, and the third-place APEX Team from the University of Ibadan, led by Olajire Aduragbemi, took home $1,500.
Abubakar Shuaibu from Green Energy Mission Africa lauded the brilliance and commitment of the young scholars.
“Their innovative solutions to climate risk are not only impressive but crucial for our future,” he noted. Azeez Abubakar of Sustainable Solutions for Green Growth emphasized the role of the competition in fostering collaboration and innovation among students.
“The insights gained by researchers will significantly contribute to mitigating climate risks across various sectors in Nigeria,” he stated.
Prof. Adegbenga Adekoya underscored the urgent need for ongoing research and proactive measures to combat climate change.
“They represent hope and progress in our fight against climate change,” he declared.
The event also marked the launch of ResilientScape Africa by Green Energy Mission Africa and Sustainable Solutions for Green Growth, aiming to enhance environmental sustainability and climate resilience across the continent.
“ResilientScape Africa will build on the success of this challenge, focusing on enhancing environmental sustainability across our continent,” said Shuaibu.
Heather Ackenhusen, a sponsor and volunteer for the Climate Risk Research Challenge, expressed her appreciation for the hard work and dedication of all involved.
“This event has been a remarkable success, thanks to the collective efforts of the students, faculty, and supporters. Together, we are making a difference,” she said.
In an interview with TRIBUNE, Peace Aburime, leader of the winning team, highlighted the importance of public concern for climate challenges. She emphasized that the prize money would be used for further research on the impact of the climate crisis on food security in Nigeria.
The Climate Risk Research Challenge—Nigeria 2023 prize event not only celebrated the participants’ achievements but also set a strong foundation for future initiatives in climate resilience and sustainability in Africa.
