FG Launches 2026 National Laureate Programme for Research

The Tertiary Institutions National Laureate Committee has announced the commencement of the 2026 National Laureate Programme, a Federal Government initiative aimed at recognizing outstanding academic research and innovation in Nigerian tertiary institutions. The programme is supported by an annual research prize fund and is designed to reward exceptional undergraduate dissertations, master’s theses, and doctoral research from accredited higher institutions.

Ita Ekpenyong, the committee’s spokesperson, stated that this initiative reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s research ecosystem and promoting innovation. The programme, inaugurated under the leadership of Minister of Education Dr Tunji Alausa, will assess and reward research from universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, monotechnics, and military institutions.

Each participating institution is expected to nominate up to 18 research works across six thematic areas. Winners will receive substantial monetary awards: ₦35 million for undergraduate, ₦50 million for master’s, and ₦100 million for doctoral categories.

Additionally, 15 Thematic Laureate Awards worth ₦12 million each will be presented to other outstanding researchers.