Deadline: Unspecified
The NASENI InnovateNaija Challenge is here! With a total prize fund of ₦250 million, this nationwide innovation competition is designed to empower students and young Nigerian innovators to develop groundbreaking solutions in science, engineering, and manufacturing. Officially launched on September 4, 2025, at the GITEX Nigeria event in Lagos, the challenge provides a unique opportunity for Nigerian youth to showcase their creativity, tackle pressing national issues, and secure major funding for their innovations.
What is the NASENI InnovateNaija Challenge?
The NASENI InnovateNaija Challenge is a flagship initiative of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in partnership with AfriLabs, supported by the Presidency. It is aimed at discovering, supporting, and scaling homegrown innovations from young Nigerians across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
With a strong focus on practical, applicable solutions, this challenge seeks to foster innovation-driven development and contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation.
Prize Structure – Up to ₦250 Million in Grants
The competition is structured in two phases, ensuring equal opportunity at both state and national levels:
Phase 1 – State-Level Competitions
- One innovator will be selected from each of the 36 states plus the FCT (a total of 37 winners).
- Each state winner receives a ₦2.5 million grant to further develop their innovation.
Phase 2 – National Finals
- The top 15 innovators will advance to the national grand finale at the NASENI Invention Fest in Abuja (February 2026).
- The grand prize winner will receive a substantial ₦100 million grant.
- Additional prizes are expected for second and third place, potentially ₦30 million and ₦20 million respectively.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the NASENI InnovateNaija Challenge, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a Nigerian citizen between the ages of 15 and 40.
- Must be resident in Nigeria (not studying or residing abroad).
- Must have a prototype or a fully developed product – ideas alone will not be accepted.
- Innovations must be in the fields of science, engineering, or manufacturing.
- Solutions must be applicable to Nigeria and preferably solve a local problem or community need.
- Both low-tech and high-tech solutions are welcome.
Application Requirements
Applicants are expected to submit their entries in a dynamic and engaging way. Key requirements include:
- Video Pitch Submission: Applicants must submit a creative video pitch showcasing their innovation.
- Social Media Posting: Pitches should be uploaded on Instagram (mandatory) and/or Twitter, using hashtags such as #InnovateNaija and #NASENIInnovationHub, tagging @nasenihq and @nasenhub.
- One Application Rule: Submissions can be made individually or as a team, but only one application per applicant/team is allowed.
Additional Opportunities
The InnovateNaija Challenge also coincides with the pre-launch of the NASENI Innovation Hub in Abuja. This hub will provide:
- Mentorship and guidance for young innovators.
- Access to infrastructure and technical facilities.
- Capacity-building programmes and workshops.
- Long-term funding and partnership opportunities.
This makes the InnovateNaija Challenge not only a competition but also a platform to launch innovative ideas into sustainable ventures.
Summary Table – At a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | September 4, 2025 in Lagos |
| Total Prize Fund | ₦250 million |
| State-Level Prizes | 37 winners (₦2.5 million each) |
| National Finalists | Top 15 innovators (finals in Abuja, February 2026) |
| Grand Prize | ₦100 million |
| Eligibility | Nigerians aged 15–40, resident in Nigeria, with prototype/product |
| Fields of Innovation | Science, engineering, manufacturing |
| Submission Format | Creative video pitch + Instagram/Twitter post with tags |
Why You Should Apply
This is your chance to be part of Nigeria’s innovation future. Whether your idea is a low-tech community solution or a high-tech engineering breakthrough, the NASENI InnovateNaija Challenge provides the funding, exposure, and mentorship to take your innovation to the next level.
Application Links
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review to improve your chances of success in this highly competitive programme.
