The Green Leaders Fellowship 2026 in Nigeria (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the Green Leaders Fellowship 2026, a fully funded leadership programme designed to develop the next generation of sustainability and climate leaders in Nigeria. Convened by The Green Institute, the fellowship will bring together one exceptional leader from each of Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for an intensive residential leadership experience.

The fellowship is aimed at individuals who are passionate about sustainability, environmental protection, and climate action. Through advanced leadership training, strategic collaboration, and action-oriented learning, participants will gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to lead sustainability initiatives in their respective states.

Beyond the one-week residency, fellows will become part of a growing national network of sustainability leaders responsible for implementing long-term environmental action plans and promoting climate solutions across Nigeria.

About the Fellowship

The Green Leaders Fellowship is a national leadership initiative established to strengthen sustainability leadership across Nigeria. The programme will select 37 fellows—one representative from each state and the FCT—through a competitive, merit-based process.

During the residential fellowship, participants will receive practical training on climate governance, environmental policy, green innovation, sustainability strategy, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement. Fellows will also develop a State Green Action Blueprint that will guide sustainability initiatives in their communities after the programme concludes.

Upon completing the residency, each fellow will serve as an Officially Green State Lead, coordinating sustainability projects and establishing a State Sustainability Cabinet to support environmental action within their state.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

• Full residential accommodation throughout the fellowship.
• Meals and refreshments during the programme.
• Transportation support to and from the residency venue.
• Advanced leadership and sustainability training.
• Mentorship from sustainability experts.
• Access to a national network of environmental leaders.
• Opportunity to implement a 12-month sustainability action plan in their state.

The fellowship is fully funded, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent qualified candidates from participating.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Be a resident of one of Nigeria's 36 states or the Federal Capital Territory.
• Demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability, environmental protection, or climate action.
• Show evidence of leadership experience or strong leadership potential.
• Have the ability to mobilize stakeholders and drive community impact.
• Be available to participate in the one-week residential programme.

The fellowship welcomes applicants from various backgrounds, including civil society, academia, public service, entrepreneurship, grassroots organizations, and the private sector.

Fellowship Curriculum

Participants will receive training in several key areas, including:

• Climate Leadership and Governance
• Energy Transition and Green Innovation
• Sustainability Policy and Advocacy
• Climate Finance
• Circular Economy
• Strategic Communication
• Stakeholder Engagement
• State Green Action Blueprint Development
• Sustainability Cabinet Formation

The programme combines technical knowledge with practical leadership skills to prepare fellows for long-term environmental impact.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the information and supporting materials required during the online application process, including evidence of their leadership experience, sustainability work, and community engagement where applicable. Additional information may be requested during the selection process.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Green Leaders Fellowship application page.
2. Complete the online application form.
3. Provide accurate personal and professional information.
4. Demonstrate your leadership experience and commitment to sustainability.
5. Submit your application before the deadline.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted after the review process.

Fellowship Outcomes

Following the fellowship, participants will:

• Establish State Sustainability Cabinets.
• Lead climate and sustainability initiatives within their states.
• Implement a 12-month State Green Action Blueprint.
• Join a nationwide network of sustainability leaders.
• Contribute to coordinated environmental campaigns across Nigeria.

Late applications will not be considered.