The Nigeria Green Academy, is an annual programme that offers young and aspiring civil society activists, journalists, academic scholars, artists and social entrepreneurs the opportunity to enrich their knowledge, ‘tool-box’ and networks to tackle some of Nigeria’s most pressing governance and development challenges.
Who is hbs?
The Heinrich Böll Stiftung (hbs) is a political foundation affiliated with the Green Party in Germany. We are an international network with currently 36 offices around the globe, working in over 60 countries. The hbs Abuja Office acts as a people-centric green think-tank and dialogue platform. We work with activists and thinkers in civil society, business, and politics to stimulate public debate and action for a democratic, socially just, gender equitable, and sustainable Nigeria.
What is the Green Academy all about?
The Green Academy is an annual programme for select young and aspiring civil society activists, journalists, academic scholars, artists, and social entrepreneurs who, in line with the foundation's values, work to strengthen participatory democracy, human rights for all, gender equality, social justice, and a sustainable Nigeria.
Working with a mix of formats such as visioning exercises, fireside chats, and advocacy skill sessions, the Green Academy offers participants the opportunity to receive inputs on socially relevant topics and discussions, and develop their vision for Nigeria's future, think outside of the box of how to achieve it, and generally enrich their knowledge, ‘tool-box,’ and networks.
The academy is a vehicle to build a community of young Nigerians who associate with the foundations’ agenda. After completing the Academy, fellows would be part of an alumni network and would continue to benefit from having access to events, mini-grants, and information on funding opportunities through an alumni network.
When and where will the Green Academy take place?
The academy is set to take place for five days, sometime in August/September 2026, in Abuja. The exact dates will be confirmed with successful candidates.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for civil society activists, journalists, academic scholars, artists and social entrepreneurs between the ages of 20-35 years old who have shown determination, passion, innovation and resilience in pursuing societal and political change in relation to the economic, social and political development of Nigeria.
The academy expressly aims to ensure a balanced mix of participants in terms of gender, geography, and identity to represent the diversity of Nigeria. We strongly encourage applications from female candidates.
How to apply?
To apply, please send your name, phone number, email address, short bio, and a brief statement explaining your interest in the programme (max. 250 words) to green.academy@ng.boell.org. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted directly and invited to provide additional information. The application deadline is 17 June 2026.
Who will cover the costs?
There will be no fees charged to participants. All programme related travel, catering and accommodation costs will be covered by hbs.
Please note: Prospective participants must be committed to staying the entire duration of the Academy. Submission of multiple entries from a single applicant is highly discouraged.
Got questions?
You can send a message to green.academy@ng.boell.org.