The Association for Students Social Welfare (ASSW) has celebrated the successful hosting of the 2026 Conference of Youth on Environment and Climate (COYEC 2026), where more than 2,500 delegates converged on Abuja to discuss the future of work, technology and environmental sustainability.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the association expressed pride in serving as the official co-host of the fifth edition of the conference, describing the event as a landmark achievement in youth engagement and climate action.
ASSW noted that it played a central role in the planning, coordination and logistical execution of the conference, which brought together students, policymakers, development partners, industry leaders and environmental advocates from across the country.
The association particularly commended its leader, Amb. Victor Adetolaju, MITPN, for his leadership and commitment to ensuring the successful delivery of the conference.
According to the statement, Adetolaju’s vision and dedication helped bridge the gap between students and key stakeholders, creating a platform for young people to contribute meaningfully to discussions on sustainable development and climate action.
ASSW also expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Environment for facilitating the use of the Green Building in Maitama, Abuja, which served as the venue for the conference.
The event featured participation from several prominent stakeholders, including representatives of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), and the media.
Among the dignitaries were Mrs. Leah Tolulope Akinfiresoye, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of Youth Development; Mr. Ariyo Olanrewaju, Head of Sustainability and Business Development Unit of ACCI; and Ms. Nkoli Omohdu, Head of the Environmental Desk at Africa Independent Television (AIT).
ASSW said the success of COYEC 2026 reinforces its mission of empowering students and young people to actively participate in shaping a sustainable future for Nigeria.
The association added that the conference demonstrated the impact of youth-led initiatives in addressing environmental challenges and advancing national development goals.
It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting student welfare, professional development and civic responsibility, while pledging continued collaboration with stakeholders, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN) Youth Nigeria, to transform conference resolutions into long-term actions and measurable impact.
Founded to champion student interests and social development, ASSW said it would continue to create opportunities that empower young people to become active contributors to governance, entrepreneurship and sustainable national development.