The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), in partnership with AfriLabs, on Thursday launched the Innovate Nigeria initiative, also known as InnovateNaija—a ₦250 million innovation challenge designed to empower young Nigerians to develop technological solutions to real-life problems.
Speaking at the launch during GITEX Nigeria at Landmark Event Centre, Lagos, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive of NASENI, Khalil Halilu, said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to building a thriving innovation ecosystem.
“Innovations should not just be fancy things but solutions to daily problems of the average Nigerian that can also scale at the African level,” Halilu stated.
The competition, backed by Presidential support, offers a prize pool of ₦250 million. Thirty-seven winners—one from each of the 36 states and the FCT—will receive ₦2.5 million each in the first phase. The top 15 will advance to a grand finale at the NASENI Invention Fest in Abuja in February 2026, where the national winner will be awarded ₦100 million to scale their innovation into a market-ready product.
Halilu stressed the importance of youth-driven inventions, citing examples of grassroots creativity. “This is government giving you an opportunity to participate, to get some money, mentorship, and other forms of support,” he said.
The challenge is also linked to the pre-launch of the NASENI Innovation Hub in Abuja, which will provide infrastructure, mentorship, and funding for innovators.
AfriLabs Senior Ecosystem Engagements Manager, Jennifer Okeke Ojiudu, described the partnership as a chance to showcase Nigerian ingenuity and urged youths to apply. “If you have a cousin, sister, friend, or brother with brilliant ideas, encourage them to come forward. State governments should also support these young people because they will be representing their states,” she said.
Applications opened on September 4, 2025, and organisers expect thousands of entries nationwide.
