5 Most Sustainable Nigerian Universities – And How?
It's no secret that Nigeria suffers from a number of environmental challenges. From pollution to climate change to increasing health issues, the challenges are numerous. For this reason, urgent calls for action have become inevitable.
Among those making active efforts to help are the country’s top universities. Whether it's through solar-powered campuses, smart waste management, or eco-conscious student clubs, these schools are actively building a more sustainable country one campus at a time.
Here’s a look at some of the most sustainable Nigerian universities and what makes them exemplary.
1. Covenant University:
Coming in at number one, this private university situated in Ota, Ogun State, is considered not only the leading university in Nigeria but also one of the most sustainable in the country.
It led other Nigerian institutions to be ranked the highest in the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, ranking at 401-600th on the list. It was also the first African university, in 9 years, to win the International Sustainable Campus Network (ISCN).
These it achieved as a result of its commitment to sustainability and resource conservation. Not only does the school invest in renewable energy to power its campus, but it also has a proper waste management system. To add to this, the school constructs and renovates its buildings using energy-efficient designs to reduce electricity use.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG):
UNILAG, known for its progressive and innovative ideas, is one of the six hosts for the Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards Enhancement Centre of Excellence (SPESSCE).
As such, UNILAG promotes sustainability through initiatives such as its waste management programs, SPESSCE postgraduate programs, and its recently unveiled Green Hub program. It is also exploring renewable energy and has launched green campus initiatives like their electric shuttles buses.
3. University of Ibadan (UI):
UI isn’t just Nigeria’s oldest university; it’s also one of the greenest. The school runs a Centre for Sustainable Development that trains students and researches climate issues.
Moreover, it has a solid recycling system and is very committed to its eco-friendly campus policies. It has also implemented various afforestation projects to conserve vegetation.
4. University of Benin (UNIBEN):
UNIBEN, another school offering the SPESSCE program, is actively invested in sustainability initiatives. To begin with, the university runs a green initiative to plant 10,000 trees across its campus to help combat climate change.
It also won a European Union (EU) grant early this year to implement a sustainable plastic waste and recycling management project. In addition, the school, in collaboration with LG, recently installed a solar-powered borehole system on campus to address the water crisis and promote environmental responsibility.
5. Pan-Atlantic University:
PAU may be small compared to others, but it punches well above its weight in sustainability. The university has a Styrofoam-free policy to reduce waste and prevent pollution. It also implemented a tree-planting program on campus in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NFC) to contribute to environmental protection. Furthermore, it trains students in sustainable urban design and environmental management through insightful tours exploring sustainable engineering practices.
Final Thoughts
In summary, these universities are proving that sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s the future. They’re showing students the importance of sustainable living while also solving real problems on and off campus. With Nigeria facing floods, pollution, and rising heat levels, these schools are helping shape the kind of future we all want to live in.
Like these schools, Redcity is all about sustainable practices. We offer sustainable construction services that involve eco-friendly practices such as recycling, repurposing, energy-efficient designs, and renewable energy.
You can check them out here and request a quote here to get started. Also, feel free to check out our blog here for more enlightening news and updates. And you can visit our YouTube channel here to discover some of our exciting content and follow us on Instagram @redcityestate for any important announcements.
Was your school among these sustainable Nigerian universities, or do you feel it should have been included? Let us know your thoughts below.