Three young Nigerian entrepreneurs have been awarded a total of ₦5 million for their cutting-edge solutions aimed at tackling post-harvest losses in the agricultural sector. The prizes were presented at the SMEDAN Talent Hunt, an initiative spearheaded by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) in partnership with Microvis Microfinance Bank and Baobab Microfinance Bank.
The competition gathered young innovators from across the country, each presenting creative and practical ideas to a panel of experts and industry stakeholders. The event showcased the potential of youth-driven innovation to transform Nigeria’s food system and boost economic growth.
Meet the Winners
-
Grand Prize (₦2 million): Awarded to the overall winner for a revolutionary approach to food preservation and reducing agricultural waste.
-
First Runner-Up (₦1.5 million): Recognized for an impactful solution with strong commercial potential.
-
Second Runner-Up (₦1 million): Honored for a promising innovation contributing to food sustainability.
Other participants also received consolation prizes in recognition of their efforts and creative ideas.
Empowering Youth, Securing the Future
SMEDAN’s Director General, Charles Odii, praised the quality of submissions and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to youth empowerment.
“Nigeria’s future rests in the hands of our creative young minds,” Odii said. “With the right platforms and support, their innovations can address pressing national challenges and create lasting employment.”
He also emphasized SMEDAN’s alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s GROW initiative, aimed at achieving national food security and economic resilience.
Stakeholders Applaud Homegrown Talent
Representatives from key institutions such as the Federal Institute for Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO) and the National Agency for Science Engineering and Infrastructure (NASENI) were also in attendance. They commended the ingenuity of the participants and pledged continued support for locally developed solutions.
This year’s SMEDAN Talent Hunt not only rewarded innovation but also sent a strong message—Nigeria’s youth are ready to lead the way in solving national problems through creativity, technology, and determination.
