The Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) is excited to announce the inaugural “Climate Media Spotlight Awards.” This award seeks to harness the power of storytelling to address Nigeria’s pressing environmental challenges.

Background

The reality of climate change impacts is evident in Nigeria in various ways, including heat waves, erratic rainfall patterns, incessant flooding, and reduced agricultural outputs. These effects are exacerbated by ongoing environmental degradation, manifesting as erosion, landslides, deforestation, and desertification. These challenges threaten the livelihoods, health, and well-being of Nigerians, making it imperative to address both climate change and environmental degradation effectively.

In response to these pressing issues, the Nigerian government has raised its ambitions and commitments to address environmental and climate challenges. Policies and strategies have been developed to mitigate climate change, adapt to its impacts, and promote sustainable development. However, the success of these initiatives depends heavily on active citizen engagement and participation. It is crucial for the public to be well-informed, motivated, and involved in driving environmental action and advocacy.

Recognizing the power of storytelling and effective communication in shaping public opinion and inspiring action, the “Climate Media Spotlight Awards 2024” aims to harness the talents of writers and communicators across the nation to raise awareness, educate, and mobilize communities and rally the government to take meaningful action against climate change and environmental degradation.

Submission Guidelines:

• Thematic Areas: Climate Change, Adaptation, Mitigation, Agriculture and Food Systems, Renewable Energy
• Formats: Published essay, story, or article; Broadcasted audiovisual documentary or story
• Publication Period: April 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024
• Submission Deadline: October 1, 2024; 5:00 PM WAT
• Submission Form: Access the submission form here.

Individuals from local media can submit entries in any of the listed formats under the thematic areas by including the link(s) to the content and a synopsis in the submission form. Remember, you can only submit one entry in a single format within any thematic area. Multiple submissions will result in automatic disqualification.

Selection Criteria

Submissions will be assessed and winners selected based on the following criteria:

• Accuracy of facts presented with credible and properly cited sources
• Audience engagement and the ability to inspire reflection or action
• Audience reach in terms of size and diversity for the publication or broadcast
• Clear and coherent presentation of content with a logical flow of ideas
• Demonstrated in-depth research and understanding of the subject matter within the submission’s thematic area
• Effective addressing of the interests and concerns of the vulnerable Nigerian audience
• Measurable influence such as initiating discussions, shaping opinions, or instigating change
• Timeliness and relevance to current environmental, climate, and food security issues in Nigeria
• Uniqueness and innovation in the publication or broadcast’s perspective

Selection of Winners

Outstanding submissions meeting the assessment criteria will be shortlisted for the different categories viz Best Publication and Best Audiovisual Content. Those shortlisted will receive invitations to the African Climate Caravan 2024 event in Abuja, where the winners will be announced and awarded.

Prizes

Winners will receive cash grants to support them in creating a climate story on a topic of their choice.

• First prize: ₦350,000 (Print), ₦500,000 (Audiovisual)
• 1st Runner-Up: ₦250,000 (Print), ₦350,000 (Audiovisual)
• 2nd Runner-Up: ₦200,000 (Print), ₦250,000 (Audiovisual)

Please submit your entry using this form. For any inquiries, please contact awards@gifsep4climate.org.