Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and the African Green Economy and Sustainability Institute (AGESI) have formally endorsed the establishment of the Nigerian Environmental Hall of Fame.
The initiative, which aims to immortalise individuals and organisations at the forefront of ecological preservation, was presented to Jonathan during a high-level consultative visit by the project’s convener, Noble Akenge.
Jonathan, himself a fellow of the Nigerian Environmental Society (FNES), welcomed the proposal at his residence, praising the foresight required to create a platform dedicated to environmental stewardship.
“President Jonathan is a leader of profound wisdom who has remained steadfast in supporting developmental causes,” Akenge noted following the briefing. “As a fellow environmentalist, his encouragement reinforces the importance of this project for our nation’s future.”
The initiative is not merely a local celebratory effort. It has secured significant technical weight through a partnership with AGESI. Dr Eugene Itua, Executive Director of the AGESI, described the Hall of Fame as a “vital step” toward institutionalising environmental excellence.
Akenge credited Itua and AGESI with providing the critical technical framework necessary to ensure the project meets international standards for sustainability and impact.
The Hall of Fame is designed to serve as more than just a gallery of past achievements. Beyond its role as a commemorative space, its mission is built on three core objectives.
First, it seeks to celebrate “unsung heroes” by recognising individuals whose vital contributions to Nigeria’s environment have largely gone unnoticed. Additionally, it aims to inspire the youth, encouraging the next generation to pursue meaningful careers in climate action and conservation.
The Hall of Fame serves as a policy advisory body, establishing a prestigious group of experts to consult on Nigeria’s most pressing national ecological challenges.
The endorsements from the former Nigerian president and AGESI are considered a turning point for the project. Akenge, who also holds the traditional title of Egegba of Yenagoa, expressed confidence that Jonathan would continue to provide support as the project nears its official unveiling.
A formal launch date and details of the nomination process are expected to be announced. Additionally, Akenge called for national solidarity, inviting both public- and private-sector stakeholders to “join hands” in the collective journey toward a greener Nigeria.
