Osun State’s push into renewable energy, sustainable transport, recycling and climate-focused development has earned Governor Ademola Adeleke a Green Leadership Award at the 1st International and 3rd National Women Green Summit and Exhibition 2026 (WIGSE-26) in Lagos.
The honour, presented by the Women in Renewable Energy Association (WIRE-A), recognises the state’s efforts to advance climate action, environmental sustainability and a green economy.
At the centre of Osun’s strategy are four major policy frameworks: the Osun State Climate Action Plan, Renewable Energy Policy, Circular Economy Action Plan and Climate-Smart Investment Portfolio.
The state has backed these policies with practical interventions, including the operationalisation of a recycling hub, recycling and waste-to-wealth programmes, ecosystem restoration projects and initiatives to promote cleaner transportation.
Its renewable-energy drive also includes the IMOLE solar lantern initiative, designed to improve access to clean and reliable lighting for students, while electric-motorbike initiatives form part of the state’s sustainable transportation agenda.
Adeleke was represented at WIGSE-26 by the Director-General and Special Envoy on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, Professor Chinwe Obuaku-Igwe, who received the award and delivered the Governor’s goodwill message.
She said Osun’s approach connects environmental responsibility with economic opportunity, arguing that climate policies should produce tangible benefits for citizens.
“Climate action must translate into opportunities for our people. It must create jobs, strengthen livelihoods, expand energy access, encourage innovation and build a more resilient economy,” she said.
Obuaku-Igwe also highlighted the importance of women and young people in Africa’s transition to a green economy. She identified access to finance, technology, skills, markets and supportive public policies as essential to helping women-led green enterprises grow.
The state welcomed the summit’s emphasis on policy reform and capital mobilisation for women’s participation in the sector, noting that the agenda aligns with Osun’s efforts to attract green investment and expand renewable energy and circular economy initiatives.
Obuaku-Igwe reaffirmed the government’s readiness to work with investors, development institutions, private-sector organisations, researchers and other stakeholders to scale climate-smart projects and create additional opportunities for women and young people.
She commended WIRE-A for bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and other stakeholders to advance discussions around Africa’s green economy.
“Women are not merely beneficiaries but critical drivers of Africa’s green transition,” she said.
The award provides fresh recognition for Osun’s effort to make sustainability part of its wider development agenda, linking cleaner energy and environmental protection with employment, innovation, investment and improved livelihoods.
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