Team SMETrust Wins FPDI's 2026 Policy Challenge

The Future Pathways Development Initiative (FPDI) announced Team SMETrust as the winner of its 2026 Policy Challenge, receiving a N2 million grand prize for their proposal aimed at rebuilding trust in Nigeria’s tax system. Team Astrum was the first runner-up, awarded N1 million for their electricity sector reforms, while Team Nikao received N750,000 as the second runner-up for addressing the Nigeria Police Force's operational gaps.

The winners were revealed at the second edition of the Policy Conference for Youth held at the KAAF Auditorium, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, attended by about 300 delegates. The conference, themed “Rebuilding Trust in the Nigerian State,” included policy debates and discussions on governance reforms, with 322 submissions from young Nigerians across 33 states.

FPDI's founder, Ayokunnu Ojeniyi, emphasized the importance of channeling youth concerns into practical policy solutions. The event also featured a keynote address by Hon.

Seyi Adisa and discussions on institutional trust, with all winning teams offered paid policy internships.