Adaeze Akpagbula Wins ₦100 Million at InnovateNaija 2026

The InnovateNaija Challenge, a national technology and innovation competition led by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in partnership with AfriLabs and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, showcased seven women among the 15 finalists. The national pitch event on October 6, 2026, featured these finalists presenting their prototypes to industry experts and investors.

Adaeze Ruth Akpagbula from Abia State emerged as the grand prize winner, receiving ₦100 million for her innovation, the PenKeep Smart Poultry Climate Control System, which addresses climate-related challenges in agriculture. Other notable female finalists included Kemisola Bolarinwa, who developed a Smart Bra Cup Diagnostic Device for breast health, and Elizabeth Chioma Chiketarauba, who created an electric vehicle and power generator.

Rita Idehai, Chinyere Esther Onwumelu, and Khadija Adamu Dandad also presented innovative solutions in waste management, energy access, and digital applications, respectively.