Enugu State bags N100 million and top honours as “cleanest state” under the RHI Green Nigeria Challenge, a nationwide tree‑planting and cleanliness competition launched by the First Lady

The recognition came during the launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative’s “Green Nigeria Challenge” by First LadySenator Oluremi Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.

Also read: Nnamdi Kanu Release Sparks Bold Demand by Enugu Governor

The Challenge is a national environmental contest that engages households, communities, and states in tree planting and environmental cleanliness, under the motto “Go Green Today for a Greener Tomorrow.”

]Prizes are structured as follows: N20 million for the best household, N50 million for the best community, and N100 million for the best state. Enugu took home the top state prize. ([The Sun Nigeria][1])

First Lady Tinubu presented a cheque and plaque to Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, wife of Enugu’s Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, on behalf of the state.

She celebrated Enugu’s consistent attention to cleanliness—not just tree planting but also prompt action whenever litter or environmental issues arise. ([The Sun Nigeria][1])

Enugu’s proactive government stance—calling workers to clean when needed, maintaining clean roads and public spaces, upgrading classrooms, and emphasizing citizen participation—were major factors in its being judged “Model Green State.” ([The Sun Nigeria][1])

• Household Category: Targeted especially at 11 northern states vulnerable to desertification. Requires each household to plant at least one tree to qualify. ([The Sun Nigeria][1])
• Community Category: Open to local governments, youth groups, schools, and NGOs to transform degraded public spaces into parks, gardens, or green zones. ([The Sun Nigeria][1])
• State Category: Competes among states (excluding Enugu after its win) based on tree coverage, cleanliness of roads, and inner city environment. ([The Sun Nigeria][1])

Senator Tinubu remarked that Enugu’s award is well earned—not just because of planted trees, but due to its cleanliness in practice.

She emphasized that leadership by example matters and that governors’ wives can play a vital role by being attentive to environmental issues. ([The Sun Nigeria][1])

The initiative also aligns with Nigeria’s commitments to environmental protection, combating desertification, climate mitigation, and sustainable development.

Also read: NCAA Approves Enugu Air Domestic Operations in Boost for Indigenous Aviation

It supports national goals for cleaner cities and greener states. ([The Sun Nigeria][1])