The Climate Risk Research Challenge, Nigeria 2023 Prize, a research event dedicated to addressing climate risk and resilience in Agricultural sector, has the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) and the University of Ibadan (UNIBADAN) as the winners.
This prestigious event recognized the innovative efforts of student researchers and underscored the importance of collaborative endeavors in tackling climate challenges in relation to food security.
The event, hosted by the University of Ibadan, brought together winning teams from the University of Ibadan and the University of Ilorin, highlighting their contributions to climate risk research.
Oyebode Adebowale, Professor and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, who was represented by P.O Olapegba, another Professor and the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration,
praised the participants for their dedication.
“Our students have demonstrated remarkable ingenuity and resilience. Their work is a testament to the high standards of academic excellence at our institution,” he said.
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Abubakar Shuaibu, a representative of Green Energy Mission Africa, while speaking at the event, expressed enthusiasm for the event, saying the Climate Risk Research Challenge had showcased the brilliance and commitment of the young scholars.
“Their innovative solutions to climate risk are not only impressive but crucial for our future.
“ResilientScape Africa will build on the success of this challenge, focusing on enhancing environmental sustainability across our continent.
“This new project aims to enhance environmental sustainability and climate resilience across African communities,” he added.
Similarly, Azeez Abubakar of Sustainable Solutions for Green Growth, gave an overview of the competition, he emphasized its objectives and impact, assuring that, “this challenge has been instrumental in fostering a spirit of collaboration and open-source innovation among students.
“The insights gained by researchers will significantly contribute towards mitigating climate risks across various sectors in Nigeria.”
In his address, Adegbenga Adekoya (Prof), highlighted the critical need for continued research and proactive measures on climate challenge.
Adekoya said the world faced increasing climate challenges, adding that the research and solutions presented by the students were vital.
“They represent hope and progress in our fight against climate change”, he said.
However, the DEWSClim Innovators from the University of Ibadan led by Peace Aburime, took first with a prize of $5,000, while UNILORIN TEAM A led by Jimoh-Faari Abdulkabir, came second and won $3,500 and the third-place, APEX Team from the University of Ibadan led by Olajire Aduragbemi won $1,500.
Heather Ackenhusen, a sponsor and volunteer for the Climate Risk Research Challenge, noted that “this event has been a remarkable success, thanks to the collective efforts of the students, faculty, and supporters. Together, we are making a difference.”
Peace Aburime, the lead for the winning team, appreciated the organisers and sponsors of the challenge, saying it was time climate challenge research became public concern among Nigerians.
