…targets grassroots inventors, global tech recognition
In a bold move to transform Nigeria into a global hub for technological advancement, the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) officially launched the NextGen Innovation Challenge 2025.
Themed “From Grassroots to Global Recognition: Igniting Nigeria’s Innovation Renaissance,” the nationwide challenge is designed to identify, support, and elevate grassroots innovators and inventors—especially those with limited access to platforms and resources.
Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja during the lunch, the Director General of NBTI, Mr. Kazeem Kolawole Raji said: “We are not merely unveiling a program, we are igniting a renaissance—of ideas, invention, and inclusive prosperity—driven by the creativity of young Nigerians from every village, every ward, every city, and every community across our land.
According to him, the Challenge aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places a strong emphasis on innovation, industrialisation, and youth empowerment.
“President Tinubu has boldly declared that Nigeria will no longer remain at the periphery of global technological and economic discourse,” Dr. Raji added. “Instead, we shall take our rightful place as a leader in technology, trade, and innovation.
Speaking on behalf of Yukound, a UK-based strategic partner headquartered in Canary Wharf, London, Tope Omojayogbe, director of business development UKALD underscored the international importance of the project:
“Empowering youth is not about buying them gifts—it’s about asking them what they can do. We know there are Nigerians who have invented CRMs, software, automobiles—even robotics. But they’ve lacked visibility,” said Omogyoge.
“This initiative gives free opportunity—you don’t need to know anybody. No gatekeeping. You don’t even need a degree. If you’re a mechanic in a village and you can build something, show us. We’ll support you.”
He also addressed concerns over intellectual property theft:
“There is no fear of idea theft. If you think your idea will be stolen, then you’re not ready. We’re patenting everything. We’re building a platform for support.”
Omogyoge further emphasized the inclusivity of the platform:
“We’re not putting age barriers. Whether you’re 15 or 50, as long as it’s original, and it works—we want to help you take it to market.”
Also speaking at the launch was Abigail Marshall-Taylor, former Lord Mayor of Leeds, UK, and wife of Nigerian Senator Sunday Marshall Katung. She expressed admiration for the programme’s nationwide inclusivity.
“When I heard about the challenge—picking from 774 local governments—I was deeply touched. It’s an opportunity for every Nigerian youth to showcase their talent, regardless of where they come from,” she said.
Marshall-Taylor had earlier hosted the NBTI team at the UK Infrastructure and Investment Forum in Leeds:
“The delegation visited me last week. I was amazed by their vision. What’s been missing for so long in Nigeria is opportunity. Now it’s here—especially for those intelligent but idle youths. This is your time to stand up, show up, and shine.”
Raji said the initiative would reach all 774 Local Government Areas to mine grassroots innovation and build a national tech pipeline.
“Imagine a girl in Osogbo creating green mobility solutions from waste, or a boy in Bauchi building drones for agriculture—these aren’t outliers. They are our future.”
NBTI will launch a global digital portal and mobile app to host and promote the innovators.
The grand finale, Dr. Raji revealed, will be held in London, to connect top Nigerian innovators with global investors, venture capitalists, and accelerators.
The Challenge targets key industries, including: HealthTech, AgriTech, and Renewable Energy, Software, AI, IoT, and Blockchain, Manufacturing, Mobility, and EduTech, Robotics, Drones, CleanTech, and more
Raji called on investors, development partners, and Nigerians in the diaspora to support the initiative.
“Your knowledge, networks, and capital can transform lives. Co-create solutions that redefine industries and uplift livelihoods.”
Omogyoge emphasized the support framework in place to protect and promote inventors:
“No one is going to steal your ideas. We are patenting them. We’re building a support network, not asking for degrees or certificates. We’re just asking: what can you build?”
“Any idea you’ve got—bring it forward. We are building a new Nigeria through innovation.”
