Eko EnviroTalk Graduates 28 Young Environmental Advocates in 2026 YLSEP Programme

Eko EnviroTalk has graduated 28 young people from the 2026 cohort of its Young Leaders for Sustainable Environment Programme (YLSEP), equipping them with knowledge and practical skills to promote environmental protection in their schools and communities.

The second cohort, held from August 17 to 22, 2026, brought together participants aged 13 to 28 under the theme, **“Ocean Heroes, Guardians of the Blue.”** The programme focused on ocean conservation, environmental protection and practical solutions to environmental challenges.

The organisers said YLSEP was designed to help young people develop the knowledge, confidence and leadership skills needed to become advocates for sustainable environmental practices.

The programme combined virtual learning with practical activities, including a boat tour of the Lagos Lagoon and a visit to the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research, where participants learnt about marine science, waterways and aquatic resource protection.

The closing ceremony featured an environmental sustainability tour and tree-planting exercise at Gracefield Island, a proposed 200-hectare mixed-use development in Lagos.

Speaking at The ceremony, Eko EnviroTalk Programme Manager, Miss ‘Wande Seriki, urged the graduates to turn the knowledge gained during the programme into practical action in their communities.

She encouraged them to build on the networks created during the programme and take responsibility for protecting the environment for future generations.

The Director of the International Ocean Institute Nigeria Centre, Williams Akanbi, also urged participants to become active environmental advocates in their schools and communities. He encouraged them to identify practical ways of reducing pollution and protecting Nigeria’s waterways and marine life.

Representing the Managing Director of Gracefield Island, Assistant Manager, Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability, Oreoluwa Babajide, stressed that environmental responsibility should begin with individuals.

Participants were also exposed to sustainable features at Gracefield Island, including tree planting, pedestrian walkways, cycling lanes, drainage systems, shoreline protection and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. They also learnt about waste separation and recycling practices.

The programme provided participants with an opportunity to present ideas addressing environmental challenges in their communities, including plastic waste management, recycling and proper waste disposal.

The organisers said the graduates are expected to take the lessons learnt beyond the training by promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices among their peers.

The graduation marked the emergence of another group of young environmental advocates equipped to contribute to efforts around climate action, marine conservation, waste management and sustainable development.

With pollution, poor waste management and environmental degradation continuing to affect communities, the organisers said programmes such as YLSEP provide young people with the opportunity to understand these challenges and develop practical solutions