NASENI Says Innovation Awards Will Help Turn Nigerian Ideas Into Jobs
The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Dr Khalil Halilu, has highlighted the importance of recognising and supporting Nigerian innovators in turning their ideas into viable products, businesses and jobs.
Halilu recalled receiving N5 million from the late President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022 after his innovation, ShapShap Efficient Deliveries, emerged as a winner at GITEX.
He said the recognition and financial support he received at the time helped shape his thinking behind the InnovateNaija initiative, which is designed to create opportunities for innovators to develop their ideas.
At the latest awards ceremony, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Finance, Kingsley Udeh, presented prizes from a N250 million innovation prize pool.
The N100 million grand prize went to Adaeze Ruth Akpagbula from Abia State for her smart poultry climate control system.
A further N162 million was awarded through the Inter- and Intra-Agency Innovation Showcase, while the FutureMakers winner received N5 million.
Halilu expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, AfriLabs and other partners for supporting Nigerian innovators and creating pathways for innovative ideas to become practical solutions.
Reflecting on his journey, the NASENI EVC said his experience as a former award recipient had strengthened his commitment to supporting other innovators.
“Once, I stood among the winners. Today, I help others take that step,” Halilu said.
He encouraged Nigerian innovators to remain committed to developing their ideas, assuring that NASENI would continue working to connect innovation with products, businesses and employment opportunities.
NASENI Says Innovation Awards Will Help Turn Nigerian Ideas Into Jobs