A United Kingdom-based Nigerian scholar, Emma Etim, has been named among the 2026 U21 Leaders of the Future at an event held at University of Glasgow.
The recognition was announced during the Universitas 21 Annual Network Meeting and Leadership Summit held in Glasgow, Scotland, on April 21.
Etim, a doctoral researcher and Postgraduate Teaching Assistant at the University of Nottingham, was honoured for his research achievements, leadership qualities and commitment to expanding access to higher education.
His research focuses on how environmental responsibility is shaped through cultural, institutional and behavioural systems, with implications for global sustainability and policy discussions.
The research project, sponsored by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, examines environmental responsibility across different social and institutional contexts.
Speaking after receiving the award, Etim said the recognition reinforced his belief in the impact of research and academic engagement.
“This recognition affirms my belief that research and academic work are most meaningful when they enable others to imagine new possibilities and contribute to meaningful change,” he said.
