Lagos State University (LASU) has emerged champion of the 2025 Inter-Tertiary Institutions Environmental Summit, hosted by the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA).
EpeInsights learnt that the Summit held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, brought together bright minds from leading institutions including LASU, UNILAG, LASUSTECH, Anchor University and St. Augustine College of Education.
The event featured competitive essay writing and a gripping debate centered on pressing environmental themes such as plastic pollution and sustainable development in Lagos’s coastal regions.
LASU clinched first place in the debate, winning a ₦1 million prize and trophy after successfully defending their stance on the topic: “Plastic Pollution and the Challenges of Just Transition in a Developing Economy: Lagos State as a Case Study.” LASUSTECH took second place (₦500,000), while UNILAG secured third (₦300,000).
In the essay category, Chinoyen Ruth (UNILAG) emerged top, earning ₦400,000 for her compelling essay on blue economy and environmental protection. She was closely followed by her colleague Oguechi Offor Anthony (₦250,000), while LASUSTECH’s David Gabriel Victor claimed third (₦150,000).
Addressing the audience, LASEPA General Manager Dr. Tunde Ajayi highlighted the importance of grooming young Nigerians as future environmental champions.
“We’re not just awarding prizes, we’re building a generation that will take ownership of our environmental future. LASEPA staff work tirelessly, and we need passionate successors to continue that legacy,” he said.
Special Adviser to the Lagos State Government on SDGs, Dr. Oreoluwa Afinnih, echoed that sentiment in her keynote, calling on tertiary institutions to become “living labs” for climate innovation.
“Your creativity is unmatched. Whether in science, art, or business, your role in shaping a sustainable Lagos is critical. Be the champions of a circular economy, defenders of clean air, and builders of smart cities,” she urged.
eTranzact, represented by Adedayo Adejokun, and Governor’s Special Assistant on Student Affairs, Samuel Kapo, also lent support to the cause, commending LASEPA’s initiative and encouraging students to stay engaged as environmental ambassadors.
The event ended with enthusiastic cheers, as participants left inspired not just by the competition, but by a renewed sense of responsibility to drive sustainable change in their communities.
