A Non-governmental Organisation, Africa Cleanup Initiative, has described circular economy as the key to climate change resilience.
The NGO said this at its environmental sustainability award on Saturday in Lagos.
The award was part of the activities to mark the ACI’s 15th anniversary in Lagos.
The theme of the event was: “Pathways to Sustainability: Advancing Circular Economy for a Climate-Resilient Future.”
Speaking at the event, Dr Alex Akhigbe, the ACI Founder, stressed the need for circular economy to boost economic growth and development.
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Akhigbe said the 2025 theme underscored the need for environmental sustainability by all and sundry.
“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.
“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 recognise excellence, but to spotlight the impact of bold action.
“The individuals and organisations we honour 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, the Commissioner for Environment, Ogun state, commended the 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 the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).
He disclosed that the interventions of ACI in Ajegunle and other local government areas in Lagos State made his work as LAWMA helmsman a lot easier.
He noted that not many people were recognised in the field of environmental sustainability.
Oresanya charged ACI to do more in the sustainability and circular economy value chain to boost job creation.
He expressed appreciation to the ACI for deeming him worthy of an award in the Environmental Sustainability Award Category.
In his keynote address, Gerald Okeke, Professor of Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability, underscored the importance of maintaining safety to mitigate the impact of climate change.
Okeke urged Nigerians to embrace safety measure in order to reduce the risk of climate change.
“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,” he said.
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 was not a sprint or a marathon.
Adegoke also commended ACI for 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,” he said.
The event brought together leading voices in sustainable development, including policymakers, environmental experts, private sector champions, youth leaders, and civil societies.
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.