Today, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and AfriLabs announced the launch of the InnovateNaija contest aimed at supporting creativity and talent among Nigerian youth.
Overview of InnovateNaija Contest
The InnovateNaija contest features a ₦250 million prize fund and aims to spur creativity among young Nigerians. The event launch took place at the 10x Stage during GITEX in Lagos, highlighting the importance of this initiative for Nigeria's tech ecosystem. NASENI's Executive Vice Chairman Khalil Sulaiman Halilu noted that the initiative aims to create an environment conducive to innovation.
How the Contest Will Work
The InnovateNaija contest is designed to be accessible and inclusive. It is planned that 37 innovators, one from each Nigerian state and the FCT, will be selected through a nationwide voting process. Each winner will receive ₦2.5 million to further develop their proposed solutions. The top 15 innovators will then compete at the NASENI Invention Fest in February 2026, with the overall winner securing ₦100 million.
Impact on Nigeria's Innovation Landscape
The launch of InnovateNaija represents a significant step in supporting young talent and innovation in Nigeria. Through the initiative, young innovators will gain access to the NASENI Innovation Hub and its institutes, providing essential resources and support. Officials and participants emphasized that the youth will drive Nigeria's digital transformation forward.
The InnovateNaija contest marks an important move towards developing Nigeria's innovative potential. It is expected that over the next three months, it will not only identify the best innovators but also serve as a platform to showcase the country's capabilities in science and technology.
