FG OPENS ₦365M RESEARCH PRIZE FOR NIGERIAN TERTIARY STUDENTS

The Federal Government has introduced a new annual prize worth ₦365 million to recognise outstanding research, innovation and intellectual achievements among students and researchers in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

The initiative, known as the Tertiary Institutions National Laureate Prize, is open to eligible participants from accredited universities, polytechnics, monotechnics and colleges of education across the country.

The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, announced the opening of the competition, describing it as part of the government’s efforts to encourage academic excellence and promote research that can contribute to Nigeria’s development.

Under the scheme, students and researchers are expected to present original research projects, innovative ideas and other forms of intellectual work capable of addressing real challenges facing the country.

The programme is designed to give outstanding scholars greater recognition while also encouraging students to look beyond academic qualifications and develop solutions with practical value.

Participants will therefore need to demonstrate the originality, relevance and potential impact of their research or innovation. Projects that address important national challenges and offer practical solutions are expected to stand out in the competition.

The Federal Government said the initiative would help create a stronger culture of research and innovation within Nigeria’s tertiary institutions, while providing talented students with an opportunity to gain national recognition for their work.

The prize is also expected to encourage universities, polytechnics and colleges of education to place greater emphasis on research and innovation as important components of national development.

Students interested in participating are expected to meet the eligibility requirements and submit research or innovation projects in line with the guidelines of the competition.

With an annual prize pool of ₦365 million, the initiative provides a major incentive for Nigerian students and researchers to develop ideas that can contribute meaningfully to society.

The Federal Government hopes the programme will ultimately help identify and support some of the country’s most promising young researchers and innovators while strengthening Nigeria’s position in research, technology and intellectual development.