Nigerian Government Launches N140 Million Innovation Challenge to Boost Local Solutions

The Nigerian government, through the National Agency of Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), has initiated the "InnovateNaija Challenge," a nationwide innovation competition aimed at unlocking Nigeria's creative potential in science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing. With a total prize pool of N140 million, the competition seeks to transform promising ideas into scalable, commercially viable solutions that address real societal and economic challenges.

The program targets innovators whose ideas can enhance products, create jobs, and reduce import dependence. NASENI's goal is to bridge existing gaps in infrastructure, skills, and financing to accelerate the growth of the local innovation ecosystem.

The competition will feature mentorship, visibility, and access to innovation infrastructure to support Nigerian innovators.