The Officially Green Leaders Fellowship 2026, convened by The Green Institute, is now open for applications. This prestigious, fully funded national programme is designed to identify, train, and empower one outstanding sustainability leader from each of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
More than just a fellowship, this initiative is a national movement to institutionalize sustainability leadership, strengthen climate governance, and build a coordinated network of environmental changemakers across Nigeria.
Through an intensive residential training and long-term action implementation, the programme equips fellows with the knowledge, tools, and networks needed to drive measurable environmental impact at the state level.
About the Officially Green Leaders Fellowship
The Officially Green Leaders Fellowship is a highly competitive programme that selects 37 exceptional individuals—one per state and the FCT—based on merit, leadership potential, and commitment to sustainability.
The fellowship combines:
- A one-week immersive residential training
- Strategic collaboration and mentorship
- Development of actionable sustainability plans
- Long-term implementation of state-level climate initiatives
At the end of the residency, each fellow becomes an Officially Green State Lead, responsible for executing a 12-month sustainability action blueprint in their respective state.
Programme Structure and Focus Areas
The fellowship is designed to provide a comprehensive and multidisciplinary learning experience across key sustainability domains.
1. Energy Transition and Green Innovation
Participants will explore:
- Renewable and decentralized energy systems
- Circular economy models
- Sustainable enterprise development
- Climate finance and funding pathways
2. Climate Leadership and Governance
This component focuses on:
- Climate science and policy frameworks
- Environmental governance at subnational levels
- Institutional engagement and policymaking processes
- Localization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
3. State Green Action Blueprint Lab
Fellows will develop:
- A 12-month sustainability roadmap
- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and measurable targets
- Strategic partnership frameworks
- Monitoring and evaluation systems
4. Advocacy and Strategic Communication
Training includes:
- Policy advocacy strategies
- Stakeholder engagement approaches
- Media positioning and public speaking
- Building influence across sectors
5. State Sustainability Cabinet Formation
Each fellow will establish a State Sustainability Cabinet, comprising key leadership roles such as:
- Renewable Energy Lead
- Circular Economy Lead
- Climate Education Coordinator
- Biodiversity and Conservation Officer
- Community Engagement Director
- Research and Policy Analyst
What the Fellowship Offers
The programme is fully funded to ensure inclusive participation from all regions of Nigeria.
Fully Funded Benefits Include:
- Full residential accommodation for the one-week training
- All meals and refreshments during the programme
- Transportation funding to and from the residency location
This ensures that selection is based solely on merit, not financial capacity.
Fellowship Outcomes and Impact
Within 12 months of participation, the fellowship aims to achieve:
- Establishment of 37 State Sustainability Cabinets
- Implementation of state-level environmental initiatives
- Nationwide sustainability campaigns
- Strengthened youth-led climate advocacy
- Creation of a unified national sustainability ecosystem
Participants will also contribute to a major national sustainability activation, positioning Nigeria as a leader in global climate action.
Who Should Apply
The programme is open to individuals who demonstrate:
- Proven commitment to sustainability or environmental action
- Leadership experience or strong leadership potential
- Ability to mobilize stakeholders at the state level
- Commitment to measurable, structured impact
Applicants may come from:
- Civil society organizations
- Academia
- Public sector
- Private sector
- Grassroots initiatives
Why You Should Apply
The Officially Green Leaders Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to:
- Become a recognized sustainability leader in your state
- Gain advanced knowledge in climate policy and governance
- Build a network of national and global changemakers
- Drive real environmental impact through structured initiatives
Application Timeline
- Application Deadline: August 26, 2026
Applications are competitive, and early submission is strongly encouraged.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications through the Official Fellowship Portal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Officially Green Leaders Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the fellowship covers accommodation, meals, and transportation.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Individuals across Nigeria with a strong commitment to sustainability and leadership.
3. How many fellows will be selected?
A total of 37 fellows—one from each state and the FCT.
4. What happens after the residency?
Fellows implement a 12-month sustainability action plan in their state.
5. Where will the residency take place?
The location will be communicated to selected fellows.
6. What does the residency focus on?
Climate leadership, governance, innovation, and sustainability strategy.
7. Can more than one person apply from a state?
Yes, but only one fellow will be selected per state.
8. Is there an age limit?
No specific age limit is stated.
9. When is the application deadline?
August 26, 2026.
10. How will applicants be notified?
Selected candidates will be contacted after the review process.
11. What makes this fellowship unique?
It combines leadership training with state-level implementation and national coordination, creating long-term systemic impact.
Learn more about the Officially Green Leaders Fellowship 2026 HERE.
Click HERE to discover more global Fellowship opportunities on OFY and more African opportunities HERE.
