Uche Nnaji, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, has emphasised the critical role of youth-driven innovation in shaping the country’s future. Speaking at the National Exhibition of the NextGen Innovation Challenge 2025 in Abuja, Nnaji highlighted the importance of national self-reliance powered by indigenous ingenuity.
Over 3,000 Entries, 74 Finalists Selected Across Nigeria
According to the minister, this year’s NextGen Innovation Challenge received over 3,000 entries from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. From this competitive pool, 74 finalists were chosen to showcase their groundbreaking solutions.
“These young innovators represent the ingenuity, courage, and brilliance that define the Nigerian spirit,” Nnaji stated.
Igniting Indigenous Ingenuity: Nigerian Solutions, Global Impact
The event’s theme, “Igniting Indigenous Ingenuity: Nigerian Solutions, Global Impact,” reflects the federal government’s broader Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Tinubu.
Nnaji reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reducing dependency on imported solutions by empowering young Nigerians to develop homegrown technologies and products.
“We will unleash the innovation of our people, unlock the potential of our youth, and build an inclusive economy that rewards ideas, enterprise, and courage,” Nnaji emphasized.
From Clean Energy to AI: Young Nigerians Are Creating Technology
The exhibition featured a diverse range of innovations, including:
- Clean energy technologies
- Fintech solutions
- Agri-tech innovations
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications
- Deep-tech products
Nnaji highlighted that Nigeria is not just consuming technology; it is creating it.
Government Commitments to Support Nigerian Innovators
The minister outlined several initiatives from the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, including:
- Strengthening innovation hubs nationwide
- Supporting the transition from ideas to market-ready solutions
- Fostering a regulatory environment that encourages risk-taking, rewards excellence, and promotes inclusion
“These young men and women don’t just have ideas; they have solutions, blueprints, and scalable products that can redefine industries and transform lives,” Nnaji said.
A Charge to Young Innovators: Building Nigeria’s Future
To the 74 finalists, Nnaji offered a clear message: “You are ambassadors of innovation and architects of the Nigeria we are building under this renewed national direction. The future is not something we wait for; it is something we must create with intention, precision, and boldness.”
National Board for Technology Incubation Reaffirms Support
Dr. Kazeem Raji, Director General and CEO of the National Board for Technology Incubation, also addressed the event. He underscored the importance of recognising the intellect and creativity of Nigeria’s people as the nation’s most valuable resource.
Nigeria’s Path to Self-Reliance Through Youth Innovation
The NextGen Innovation Challenge 2025 highlights Nigeria’s strategic focus on youth-led, indigenous innovation as a cornerstone of national development. With government backing and a growing ecosystem of support, Nigeria’s young innovators are poised to deliver solutions that not only serve local needs but also have a global impact.
