Two students of the University of Lagos, Ogundipe Nurudeen Owolabi (Department of Psychology) and Kako Quareeb (Department of Chemical Engineering) have emerged as First and Second Runner-Up award winners at the Youth Forum on Climate Education & Green Innovation/Solution for Greener Initiative Forum.
The awards and cash prizes were presented by the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Dr. Gaji Omobolaji Tajudeen, to the awardees on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at the Ministry’s headquarters.
The two UNILAG award recipients, who volunteered with, and were mentored by UNILAG Green Hub, developed innovative projects that promote environmental protection, renewable energy, circular economy, and climate resilience as indicated below:
- First Runner-Up, Ogundipe Nurudeen Owolabi is the brain behind the Green Furniture Project, which addresses textile waste in Lagos by converting discarded fabrics and used tires into sustainable furniture. The project promotes circular economy practices, provides students with hands-on entrepreneurship experience, and supports green job creation.
- Second Runner-Up, Kako Quareeb developed Project FLOAT (Floating Latrine for Anaerobic Bacteria Treatment), an innovative sanitation solution for riverine and waterlogged communities such as Makoko. The project transforms human waste into biogas and organic fertilizer. This helps to reduce pollution, improve community health, and advance climate action.
The Youth Forum on Climate Education & Green Innovation/Solution for Greener Initiative Forum, organized by the Office of Environmental Services, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, aims to empower youth-led organizations and students in tertiary institutions who are driving sustainability and climate solutions across Lagos State. It provides a platform for young innovators to receive mentorship, recognition, and seed grants to support their initiatives.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS , on behalf of staff and students of UNILAG congratulates Ogundipe Nurudeen Owolabi and Kako Quareeb for representing the University with distinction.
