Nigeria’s growing profile in global environmental advocacy received a boost as Iroro Tanshi was named Africa’s recipient of the 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize.

The award, widely regarded as the world’s highest recognition for grassroots environmental activism, was announced on Monday by the Goldman Environmental Foundation in San Francisco, United States.

Tanshi was recognised for her role in safeguarding biodiversity and tackling wildfire threats in Cross River State, particularly within and around the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary.

Her work gained international attention following the rediscovery of the endangered short-tailed roundleaf bat in the area, a species that had not been documented in Nigeria for decades. Subsequent research identified increasing incidents of human-induced wildfires as a major threat to the species and the wider ecosystem.

To address this, Tanshi spearheaded a community-based initiative focused on wildfire prevention, working with local farmers and residents to improve fire management practices. The initiative also involved the training and deployment of community fire brigades and the introduction of early warning systems.

Data from the Foundation indicate that between 2022 and 2025, the intervention helped contain over 70 fire outbreaks, preventing them from escalating into large-scale wildfires and protecting farmlands, forest reserves, and surrounding communities.

The Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary is considered one of Nigeria’s key biodiversity zones, hosting several endangered species and serving as a critical conservation area in the country’s remaining rainforest belt.

Established in 1989, the Goldman Environmental Prize honours environmental activists from six regions of the world. To date, more than 200 individuals from nearly 100 countries have received the award.

The 2026 edition is notable for featuring an all-female group of winners for the first time, reflecting the increasing role of women in environmental protection and climate advocacy.

Other awardees include Borim Kim of South Korea, Sarah Finch of the United Kingdom, Theonila Roka Matbob of Papua New Guinea, Alannah Acaq Hurley of the United States, and Yuvelis Morales Blanco of Colombia.

The award ceremony is scheduled to be held in San Francisco during Earth Week and will be broadcast to a global audience.

Analysts say Tanshi’s recognition underscores the importance of community-driven approaches in addressing Nigeria’s environmental challenges, including deforestation, land degradation, and climate-related risks.