Nigeria Prize For Science Hits Record 237 Entries In 2026
Record-Breaking Entries Signal Rising Interest in Innovation
THE 2026 edition of The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation has recorded its highest number of submissions since inception, attracting 237 entries and marking a significant milestone in the country’s scientific and innovation landscape.
The submissions were formally handed over to the prize’s Advisory Board during a press conference in Lagos on 14 May 2026, officially commencing the adjudication process for what is widely regarded as Africa’s most prestigious science award.
Focus on Digital Innovation and National Development
Organisers retained the 2025 theme — innovations in ICT, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and digital technologies for development — reflecting both global technological trends and Nigeria’s evolving development priorities.
Speaking at the event, Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at Nigeria LNG Limited, emphasized the critical role of digital infrastructure in modern economies.
She noted that innovation must go beyond theory, stressing that impactful solutions capable of addressing real societal challenges would determine the eventual winner.
High Standards After 2025 No-Winner Outcome
The 2025 edition of the prize ended without a winner after no submission met the required standard — a decision organisers say underscores the award’s commitment to excellence.
According to Horsfall, the absence of a winner last year set a benchmark that ensures only solutions with measurable impact, scalability, and global relevance will be recognised.
“We believe that any Nigerian innovation must meet the highest levels of scrutiny to earn global respect,” she said.
Advisory Board Reaffirms Rigorous Evaluation Process
Receiving the entries, Advisory Board Chairman Barth Nnaji described the handover as a critical stage in the selection process.
He reiterated that the credibility of the prize depends on strict adherence to standards that prioritise originality, relevance, and practical impact.
“Our refusal to award a winner in 2025 was not a rejection of effort, but a reinforcement of excellence,” Nnaji said.
He added that the prize seeks innovations capable of addressing real-world challenges, including digital healthcare solutions and the application of AI in preserving culture and language.
Growing Prestige and Global Relevance
Now in its 22nd year, the prize — valued at $100,000 — continues to position Nigeria as a hub for scientific innovation in Africa.
Observers say the surge in entries reflects increasing awareness among researchers and innovators, as well as the growing importance of technology-driven solutions in national development.
Other members of the Advisory Board include Nike Akande and Baba Yusuf Abubakar, both of whom bring extensive expertise to the evaluation process.
Countdown to Final Selection
With adjudication now underway, attention turns to the final selection phase, with the winner expected to be announced at a global press conference in September 2026.
Stakeholders say the outcome will not only celebrate innovation but also set the tone for future research priorities in Nigeria.
