₦5 Million Innovation Prize: How Young Nigerians Can Benefit from NASENI’s FutureMakers Hackathon
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has selected 60 young Nigerian innovators from thousands of entries for its FutureMakers Virtual Hackathon and Pitch Sessions. The five-day virtual hackathon runs from August 17–21, 2026, followed by pitch sessions from August 24–26.
The programme is designed to help young innovators develop practical solutions to challenges affecting different parts of Nigeria, with support from technical facilitators and mentors.
What Can Participants Win?
The opportunity goes beyond cash prizes. Winners from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones will receive ₦1.5 million, ₦1 million and ₦500,000 respectively.
The top six innovators will then advance to the NASENI Invention Fest, where they can compete for a ₦5 million grand prize, an international study tour and fully funded scholarships to two leading Nigerian universities.
“FutureMakers by NASENI is more than just a program; it’s a launchpad for the next generation of Nigerian innovators.” — NASENI Innovation Hub
How Can Young Nigerians Benefit?
Although applications for this edition are already closed, young Nigerians can prepare for similar opportunities by:
1. Identify a real problem: Look around your community and find problems in education, security, agriculture, healthcare, technology or the environment.
2. Build a solution: Turn your idea into a simple prototype, app, product or workable concept.
3. Develop digital skills: Learn coding, design, data analysis, artificial intelligence or other relevant skills through free online resources.
4. Prepare your pitch: Learn how to clearly explain the problem, your solution, its impact and how it can be scaled.
5. Watch for future opportunities: Follow the NASENI Innovation Hub for future programmes, competitions and innovation opportunities.
The FutureMakers programme demonstrates that innovation, skills and problem-solving can open doors for Nigerian young people. Even if you missed this application cycle, start developing your idea now. The next opportunity could be yours.
