ASABA — Dennis Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba, in partnership with the Engr. Chief Chukwuemeka Chukwurah Green Energy Foundation (ECCCGEF), has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action during the 2026 World Environment Day celebration.

The event, organized by the National Environmental Management and Toxicology Students Association (NEMTSA), DOU Chapter, in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Management and Toxicology, Faculty of Science, was themed “Inspired by Nature, for Climate and the Future.”

The programme also featured the presentation of the ECCCGEF Green Prize 2026, an essay competition open to students of tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Samuel Ovuete Aghalino, who served as Chief Host, reiterated his vision of positioning the institution among Nigeria’s leading universities.

He commended the organisers for promoting environmental awareness and sustainability initiatives within the university community.

The occasion was chaired by Josephine Anene-Okeakwa, who urged students to remain peaceful and support the university administration in achieving its developmental goals.

President of the Engr. Chief Chukwuemeka Chukwurah Green Energy Foundation, Engr. Chief Chris Chukwurah, who served as Father of the Day, announced Miss Opara Miriam, a 400-level Law student of the University of Port Harcourt, as the winner of the 2026 Green Essay Prize.

The winner received her award and certificate from Chief Lady Patricia Nkadi Chukwurah and also presented her winning essay to participants.

Other notable guests at the event included Managing Director of Solid Chemicals Recycling Ltd, Asaba, Francis Ichechukwu Nnachi, popularly known as the “Plastic Warrior,” who sponsored the programme, and Dr. Ozabor Famous, who delivered a keynote lecture on environmental sustainability and climate action.

Participants engaged in discussions on climate change, waste management, environmental conservation and the collective responsibility of protecting natural resources for future generations.

A major highlight of the celebration was the planting of 20 trees within the university campus. The exercise included 10 wind-breaking trees and 10 economic trees donated by the foundation to support biodiversity conservation and create a greener learning environment.

Organisers said the initiative underscored the commitment of both the university and ECCCGEF to environmental protection and climate resilience.

The event also featured an environmental quiz competition and a pageantry display by students of the Department of Environmental Management and Toxicology.

Following the competition, the winner of the NEMTSA pageant was crowned by the Vice-Chancellor.

The celebration further witnessed the formal handover of leadership positions within the department’s student body, marking a transition in the students’ leadership structure.

Awards and certificates were presented to students and participants in recognition of their contributions to environmental advocacy, sustainability and community development.

Organisers said the event reinforced Dennis Osadebay University’s commitment to promoting environmental consciousness through strategic partnerships and practical initiatives aimed at combating climate change and plastic pollution.

They urged stakeholders to continue supporting efforts to build a sustainable future through responsible environmental practices and climate action.