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…As first greenLabs cohort graduates in Lagos
By Chinenye Anuforo
The Consumer Advocacy and Empowerment Foundation (CADEF), in partnership with Jacob’s Ladder Africa (JLA), will tomorrow, Friday, October 10, 2025, host the graduation ceremony for the first cohort of the GreenLabs Incubation Program in Lagos.
The event marks the culmination of nine transformative months during which young Nigerian innovators turned bold, climate-smart ideas into market-ready solutions.
GreenLabs is a Pan-African incubation initiative designed to nurture the next generation of green entrepreneurs and innovators. Currently running in Nigeria and Kenya, the program supports Africa’s transition to a low-carbon, circular economy through capacity-building workshops, mentorship, business coaching, and hands-on innovation.
Participants from the Lagos Cohort 1 have developed practical solutions such as converting organic waste into renewable energy, solar-powered irrigation systems for smallholder farmers, and recycling and upcycling ventures that generate income while protecting the environment.
Prof. Chiso Ndukwe-Okafor, Executive Director of CADEF, described the program as a testament to the power of youth-driven innovation.
“The GreenLabs program proves that sustainability begins with empowerment,” she said. “This first cohort has not only built innovative solutions but also created scalable enterprises that show the promise of Africa’s green future.”
Karen Chelangat, Chief Innovation Officer at Jacob’s Ladder Africa, added:
“Our mission is to make African youth the architects of the green economy. The success of this first cohort reinforces our commitment to expanding opportunities and building more green jobs and enterprises across the continent.”
Building on this success, CADEF has opened applications for GreenLabs Cohort 2, which will feature expanded partnerships and cross-country collaborations.
Young Nigerians passionate about sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship are encouraged to apply through CADEF website.
