The Federal Government has launched the InnovateNaija Challenge, a nationwide competition with ₦250 million in funding to support young innovators across Nigeria.
The initiative, spearheaded by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in partnership with AfriLabs, was unveiled on September 4 at GITEX Nigeria 2025 in Lagos. It aims to help Nigerian inventors move from prototypes to scalable businesses in science, engineering, and manufacturing.
Under the framework, 37 innovators—one from each state and the FCT—will be selected through video submissions and public voting. Each state-level winner will receive a ₦2.5m grant to further develop their ideas.
The top 15 finalists will compete at the grand finale in February 2026 during the NASENI Invention Fest in Abuja, where the overall winner will receive ₦100m, while two runners-up will also secure additional funding.
NASENI Executive Vice Chairman, Khalil Halilu, said the programme reflects government’s commitment to fostering problem-solving and technological advancement. He added that NASENI has also established an Innovation Hub in Abuja to provide mentorship, infrastructure, and research support.
AfriLabs Executive Director, Anna Ekeledo, described the initiative as a “testament to the power of homegrown innovation” in driving economic growth.
Organisers said the programme will run for three months, with the goal of positioning Nigeria as a hub for African innovation while addressing local challenges in sectors such as energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and digital technology.
