Women are leading the charge for a greener future. On World Earth Day, we celebrate the Nigerian women driving environmental change.
As women, we’ve all been there — worrying about the safety of the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the future of the planet we’re shaping for the next generation of women. For World Earth Day, we acknowledge the women turning those concerns into action, fighting tirelessly for environmental stability and sustainability.
From advocating for climate justice to promoting eco-friendly practices, these women are leading the charge to protect our planet and ensure a healthier future for all. Furthermore, their dedication and resilience offer a beacon of hope in the face of environmental challenges.
Jennifer Uchendu
Meet Jennifer Uchendu, a trailblazing ecofeminist and sustainable development advocate redefining the climate conversation in Africa. As the visionary founder of Sustyvibes, Jennifer empowers young people to take action on sustainability, making it relatable and achievable. Her expertise spans the intersection of youth, women, and climate action, driven by a Master’s degree in Development Studies (specialised in climate change and gender)and a passion for creating lasting impact.
With the recent launch of The Eco-Anxiety Africa project, Jennifer continues to push boundaries, exploring the nuances of eco-anxiety in African populations. A distinguished Ashoka Fellow (2012), Chevening scholar (2019), and Mandela Washington Fellow (2018), Jennifer’s work embodies a commitment to a more sustainable future.
Temilade Salami
With a mission to safeguard Nigeria’s natural treasures, Temilade Salami is championing a greener future. As a marine biologist and Executive Director of Ecowarriors, she spearheads initiatives that tackle plastic waste, promote ocean conservation, and inspire sustainable living.
She is also the founder of EcoChampions -an organisation that connects young people in Africa with opportunities, tools and resources for climate change. Salami is a Chevening scholar and holds a master’s degree in Environment, Development and Policy from the University of Sussex.
Through her creative writing and poetry, Temilade crafts powerful messages that resonate with audiences of all ages. A recognised leader in her field, she’s garnered numerous awards for her dedication to environmental sustainability. Temilade continues to shape a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow for Nigeria and beyond by empowering young minds with knowledge and values.
Rita Idehai
Meet Rita, a pioneering geoscientist and social entrepreneur transforming waste into opportunity. As the founder of Ecobarter, Rita empowers local communities in Abuja, Nigeria, with sustainable waste management solutions, driving sensitisation, recycling, and creative repurposing.
Her impactful work extends beyond environmental sustainability. It encompasses providing disadvantaged young women, including those displaced by conflict, with dignified employment opportunities through waste repurposing. With a strong foundation in Geology and Earth Science, Rita’s innovative approach is redefining the intersection of environmental stewardship and social justice.
Adesuwa Obasuyi
Obasuyi is a driving force in Nigeria’s climate landscape. As Climate Change Policy Manager at the British High Commission in Abuja, she leverages her expertise in environmental quality management to craft sustainable solutions for a climate-friendly future. With a Master’s degree from the University of Benin, Adesuwa’s passion lies in effective waste management and data-driven decision-making.
Her advocacy empowers women and youth, fostering sustainable livelihoods and a greener tomorrow. Through her tireless efforts, Adesuwa is redefining the intersection of policy, environment, and community development, inspiring a more resilient Nigeria.
Oladosun Adenike
Adenike’s journey into climate activism began with a profound realisation – the devastating impact of climate change on her own land. Witnessing the years-long conflict over land in Benue State, alongside her research on Lake Chad, ignited a deep sense of urgency within her. Through her initiative, ILeadClimate, Adenike has become a beacon of hope, mobilising thousands of young people and women to take action.
Her approach is multifaceted: raising awareness about the Lake Chad crisis, promoting environmental education, and championing ecofeminism. By equipping over 10,000 women with organic tools and indigenous knowledge, Adenike envisions a future where women are recognised as key players in environmental conservation, food security, and ecosystem restoration.
Adenike’s mantra is simple yet powerful: “If you don’t understand the problem, you can’t solve it.” She emphasises the urgency of the present and stresses the need to spread the gospel of climate action far and wide. Furthermore, Adenike inspires a new generation of climate leaders through her tireless efforts.
Toluwalase Abiona
From the streets of Lawanson, Mushin, a young environmentalist is rising to challenge the status quo. Toluwalase Abiona, founder of Zero Plastic Community, is driven by a passion to combat plastic pollution in her community. With a background in Marine Science and training from the AY4E Masterclass series, Toluwalase has become a force for change, educating others and developing solutions to the plastic crisis.
As a SWEEP volunteer and Ocean Hero, she’s launched initiatives like the Zero Plastic Straw Community, inspiring a movement towards a plastic-free future in Nigeria. Her determination sparks a wave of sustainability that will leave a lasting impact.
Doyinsola Ogunye
With a vision for a sustainable tomorrow, Doyinsola Ogunye is inspiring a movement in Nigeria. She is the founder of Mental and Environmental Development Initiative for Children (MEDIC) and Recycling Scheme for Women and Youth Empowerment (RESWAYE). She’s empowering children, youth, and women to protect the environment through eco-friendly habits, recycling, and waste management. From Kids Clean Club, Kids Beach Garden and Sea Turtle Sanctuary, Doyinsola’s initiatives are shaping the next generation of environmental stewards. Recognised as a leading advocate across Africa, she’s received numerous accolades, including the Her Network Woman of the Year award. Her dedication to a greener future is a testament to the power of individual action.
From advocating for climate justice to promoting sustainable practices, these women are leading the charge to protect our planet. Consequently, their work not only inspires but also powerfully underscores the vital role women play in shaping a more sustainable future. Happy World Earth Day!
