The Green Institute has hosted the fourth edition of the Prof. Damilola Sunday Olawuyi, SAN, Debate Competition, bringing together eight secondary schools in Ondo State to debate corporate responsibility for environmental damage.
The competition, held on Thursday, 12 November 2026, at The Green Institute in partnership with Homaj Secondary School, Itanla, featured the motion: “Should Companies Be Held Legally Responsible for Environmental Damage Caused by Their Operations?”
The event provided students with an opportunity to demonstrate their public speaking, critical thinking, research and argumentation skills while examining the relationship between business operations, environmental protection, corporate accountability and the law.
The competition is named after Professor Damilola Sunday Olawuyi, SAN, an internationally recognised legal scholar and practitioner specialising in environmental law, energy law, business and human rights, and sustainable development. He is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and UNESCO Chairholder in Environmental Law and Sustainable Development at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar.
Four years of environmental debate
The 2026 competition marked the fourth edition of the initiative, reflecting The Green Institute’s commitment to promoting environmental literacy, critical thinking and youth participation in environmental governance.
The competition began at the President Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library. Its second edition was held at the University of Ibadan, while the third took place at the University of Lagos. The fourth edition brought the initiative to The Green Institute in Ondo State, in partnership with Homaj Secondary School.
Speaking on the significance of the competition, Dr. Adenike Akinsemolu, Director of The Green Institute, said:
“We want young people to understand that environmental protection is not just a scientific concern; it is also a matter of law, ethics and accountability. By naming this competition after Professor Damilola Sunday Olawuyi, SAN, we recognise his contributions to environmental law while inspiring a new generation to engage critically with the responsibilities of businesses and the protection of our environment.”
Eight secondary schools participate
The participating schools were Christ the Redeemer Secondary School, AUD Grammar School, Ondo Anglican Grammar School, St. Helen’s Girls School, Havidus Secondary School, Holy Trinity Grammar School, St. Joseph’s College and Diocesan Comprehensive College.
Each school was represented by two students. The debate featured opening statements, substantive arguments, rebuttals and closing arguments, with teams presenting positions for and against the motion.
The discussions covered corporate environmental responsibility, the consequences of industrial and commercial activities, the role of legal frameworks and the extent to which companies should be held accountable for environmental damage.
About 50 students of Homaj Secondary School also attended the event as audience members.
Programme highlights
The programme began at 10:00 a.m. with an opening prayer and moderation by Mr. Adenika Aanu.
Welcome addresses were delivered by Ms. Foluke Arijeniwa, representing The Green Institute, and Ms. Akintomiwa Surprise, Minister of Information and Communication, Homaj Secondary School.
Dr. Adenike Akinsemolu also addressed participants on the importance of connecting business activities with environmental sustainability and accountability.
A citation of Professor Olawuyi was presented by Mr. Okwekwe Oghenebrume, a student of Homaj Secondary School, while the school’s choir, Homaj Voices, gave a special musical rendition.
The competition was assessed by Ms. Fagbemi A., Mr. Ojo Israel and Mrs. Julianah, while Mr. Akintujoye Emmanuel served as timekeeper.
Christ the Redeemer wins competition
Christ the Redeemer Secondary School, Ondo, emerged overall winner of the competition. The school was represented by Ayenugba Heritage and Akande Mercy.
St. Joseph’s College, represented by Akinnagbe Wilson and Joseph Emmanuel, came second, while Ondo Anglican Grammar School, represented by Soremekun Oluwayanmife Precious and Abraham Temiloluwa, finished third.
The three winning teams received prizes and certificates, while certificates were also presented to all participating students.
Mr. Kayode Akinmoladun, Principal of Homaj Secondary School, announced the results, presented the awards and delivered the closing remarks.
Promoting youth participation in environmental governance
Homaj Secondary School, Itanla, served as the institutional partner and host school for the fourth edition. Its contribution included programme participation, student engagement and a musical performance by its choir.
The partnership highlighted the role of collaboration between sustainability organisations and educational institutions in providing opportunities for practical learning and meaningful engagement.
Environmental challenges involve not only scientific and ecological concerns but also issues relating to law, economics, business ethics and public policy. Engaging young people with these issues helps them understand sustainability and the responsibilities of businesses and citizens.
Through debate, students learn to examine evidence, consider opposing perspectives and communicate informed positions. The Green Institute said the initiative would continue to provide a platform for young people to engage with environmental issues and develop skills that would contribute to sustainable development.
The Institute appreciated the participating schools, students, teachers, judges, organising team, Homaj Secondary School and others who contributed to the success of the competition.
WATCH TOP VIDEOS FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE TV