Rachel Ikemeh, a Nigerian conservationist, has won the prestigious 2026 Rolex Award for her efforts to protect the critically endangered Niger Delta red colobus monkey and its habitat in the Niger Delta region.

Ikemeh's work focuses on community engagement and ecological preservation, aiming to safeguard the unique biodiversity of the Niger Delta. The red colobus, known locally as epieni, faces significant threats from deforestation and human encroachment.

Her initiatives highlight the importance of local involvement in conservation efforts, which can help mitigate broader environmental challenges such as habitat loss and species extinction.