The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has officially launched the InnovateNaija Challenge, a nationwide innovation competition designed to empower young Nigerians with bold ideas in science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing.
With a total prize pool of ₦140 million, the challenge is more than a competition — it’s a national platform aimed at transforming local ideas into scalable, funded solutions that solve real Nigerian problems while strengthening the country’s industrial and technological capacity.
The InnovateNaija Challenge is part of NASENI’s broader Innovation Hub initiative, which focuses on closing the gaps between ideas, infrastructure, skills, and funding within Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.
Why the InnovateNaija Challenge Matters
Nigeria is rich in ideas but often lacks structured pathways that move innovations from concept to commercialization. The InnovateNaija Challenge addresses this gap by combining:
- Significant grant funding
- National visibility and credibility
- Mentorship and ecosystem access
- A clear route from idea to market
For innovators, this means an opportunity not just to win funding, but to plug directly into a national innovation support system.
What You Can Win
Grants & Financial Support
- ₦100 million grand prize for the overall national winner
- ₦2.5 million for each of the 37 state and FCT winners
- Additional cash prizes for other top national finalists
Pitching & Visibility
Finalists will pitch their innovations at the NASENI Invention Fest in Abuja (February 2026), presenting before industry experts, judges, investors, and policymakers — a rare opportunity for national exposure.
Mentorship & Ecosystem Support
Participants gain access to:
- Expert mentorship
- Commercialisation guidance
- Possible incubation and infrastructure support through NASENI Innovation Hubs
Who Should Apply? (Eligibility)
The InnovateNaija Challenge is open to:
- Young innovators, entrepreneurs, inventors, and researchers across Nigeria
- Projects in science, engineering, manufacturing, technology, and applied innovation
- Ideas or prototypes that can be scaled, commercialised, or solve local challenges with economic or social impact
No specific academic qualification or registered company is required. What matters most is the strength, relevance, and potential of your idea.
How the Competition Works
Phase 1: State-Level Selection
Innovators from all 36 states and the FCT submit their ideas (often via online or video submissions). Entries are reviewed and may involve public voting.
- One winner per state/FCT receives ₦2.5 million.
Phase 2: National Finals
- Top 15 innovators nationwide advance to the final stage
- Finalists pitch live at the NASENI Invention Fest in Abuja
- Judges select the overall winners and award top national prizes
The entire programme runs for about three months, combining submissions, voting, mentorship, and final evaluations.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Prepare your innovation summary
- Clearly explain the problem you’re solving, your solution, and why it matters.
- Create a short pitch video
- Follow the submission guidelines and showcase your innovation’s value and impact.
- Register via NASENI’s official platform
- Visit NASENI’s official website to access the InnovateNaija Challenge registration portal:
- https://naseni.gov.ng
- Submit before the deadline
- Deadlines are announced officially on NASENI’s website and social media channels.
- Engage your audience
- Some stages include public voting, so community support can boost your chances.
Final Thoughts
The InnovateNaija Challenge is a rare opportunity for Nigerian innovators to secure funding, gain national recognition, and receive long-term ecosystem support — all from a single programme.
If you have an idea that can shape Nigeria’s future in science, technology, or manufacturing, this is your moment.
👉 Apply now via NASENI’s official website:
https://naseni.gov.ng
By 
Mr Ifenuga