The momentum is building for the 2025 edition of the Nigeria Prize for Science, with an unprecedented 112 submissions now officially handed over to the Prize’s Advisory Board to begin the adjudication process.
Widely regarded as Africa’s most prestigious and lucrative science award, the prize offers a substantial reward of $100,000 USD. This year’s theme—“Innovations in ICT, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Technologies for Development”—aims to uncover breakthrough solutions that will accelerate Nigeria’s digital economy. Sponsored by the Nigerian LNG Limited (NLNG), the competition attracts entries from scientists both within Nigeria and across the globe, recognizing innovations that drive industry advancement and promote sustainable national development.
At a press briefing in Lagos, Sophia Horsfall, NLNG’s General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development, officially handed over the entries to the Advisory Board, chaired by distinguished scientist Professor Barth Nnaji.
This handover signals the start of a thorough evaluation period, where a panel of expert judges will assess the entries on originality, scientific merit, and potential impact on Nigeria’s development. The competition is expected to be fierce, reflecting increasing global attention to AI and digital technology innovation.
Horsfall underscored the importance of this year’s focus, aligning with worldwide trends in technological transformation. “The 2025 Prize highlights pioneering research and innovative solutions leveraging technology to empower industries, uplift communities, and redefine Nigeria’s growth path,” she said.
“As Africa’s largest economy with abundant youthful talent, Nigeria stands uniquely positioned to harness digital innovation for scalable solutions that promote sustainable socio-economic progress,” Horsfall added.
She also praised the Advisory Board for their unwavering dedication and leadership in managing the Prize.
Receiving the entries, Professor Nnaji expressed his enthusiasm over the record number of submissions. “The volume and quality of entries are truly encouraging. The competition promises to be highly competitive and will spotlight cutting-edge innovations,” he said.
He further emphasized AI’s transformative impact across various sectors: “AI is revolutionizing nearly every facet of life, enhancing innovation, efficiency, and opening new frontiers across industries.”
“In healthcare, AI improves diagnostic speed and accuracy through advanced imaging and predictive analytics. In education, it customizes learning, enabling teachers to identify challenges early via intelligent tutoring and automated assessments. In agriculture, AI supports precision farming by analyzing sensor and satellite data to optimize crop management and yield forecasting. These advances highlight AI’s vital role as a catalyst for innovation and sustainable development,” Nnaji noted.
Other Advisory Board members include Nike Akande, former Minister of Industry, and Professor Baba Yusuf Abubakar, expert in Quantitative Genetics and Animal Breeding.
The Nigeria Prize for Science continues to champion creativity, innovation, and scientific excellence as foundational drivers of the nation’s development, fostering a vibrant research culture that positions Nigeria at the cutting edge of global innovation.
The winner of the 2025 Prize will be announced at a global press conference scheduled for September.
