Nigerian tech entrepreneur Stanley Chidubem Anigbogu has been awarded the 2025 Commonwealth Young Person of the Year for his pioneering work in sustainable energy. The prestigious honor was presented at the Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work, held at Marlborough House in London on March 12, 2025.
Anigbogu, the founder of LightEd, was recognized for his groundbreaking initiative of converting waste into solar-powered energy solutions, which has provided clean electricity to more than 10,000 refugees across Africa. His work in renewable energy and climate resilience stood out among over 800 applicants, securing him both the overall award and the regional title for Africa.
LightEd, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, addresses both environmental waste and energy poverty by repurposing discarded electronic and plastic materials into sustainable power solutions. The initiative has also trained 6,000 students and recycled over 20,000 kilograms of waste, fostering environmental awareness while expanding access to clean energy.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland presented the award, commending Anigbogu for his ingenuity and commitment to sustainability. “Not only are you bringing hope and light to vulnerable communities and refugees who face many hardships, but you are also making the environment safer and cleaner for future generations,” she said, describing him as “a true revolutionary and visionary.”
#Nigerian innovator Stanley Chidubem Anigbogu wins 2025 #Commonwealth Young Person of the Year for providing solar power to 10,000+ refugees & training 6,000 youth.
đź’ˇ His impact is lighting the way for a greener future!
đź”— Read more: https://t.co/nvBypu5MpA #CYA pic.twitter.com/YifJcNXr7Q
— The Commonwealth (@commonwealthsec) March 13, 2025Anigbogu expressed gratitude for the recognition, highlighting the collective impact of young changemakers. “It is an incredible honor to be recognized alongside inspiring youth leaders who are launching transformative solutions for millions around the world,” he said. He pledged to continue developing sustainable innovations to address Africa’s pressing energy challenges.
The Commonwealth Youth Awards, an initiative of the Commonwealth Youth Programme, celebrate young leaders aged 15–29 who drive progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each of the 20 finalists received £1,000 to support their initiatives, while the five regional winners, including Anigbogu, were awarded £3,000 each. As the overall winner, he received an additional £2,000.
The event, part of the two-week Commonwealth Youth Leadership Summit in London, followed Commonwealth Day celebrations. Deputy Director General of the Commonwealth Foundation, Shem Ochola, praised Anigbogu’s impact, calling his achievements “a testament to the transformative power of youth leadership.”
