NASENI Launches N140m Innovation Contest on Boosting Agriculture, Education and Infrastructure

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has announced the launch of its Inter Agency Innovation Competition & Awards, a N140 million initiative aimed at fostering homegrown technological solutions across federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

According to NASENI’s Deputy Director of Information, Chima Akwaja, the contest is designed to stimulate creativity, collaboration, and practical problem-solving among public servants, encouraging MDAs to develop innovative approaches that can drive national development.

This initiative is about harnessing innovation to tackle real world challenges in agriculture, education, and infrastructure, Akwaja said. “Through science and technology, we can transform service delivery, boost productivity, and improve the quality of life for Nigerians.”

The competition invites MDAs to propose ideas that leverage technology to strengthen key sectors. In agriculture, this could include smart farming solutions, precision irrigation systems, and post-harvest storage innovations aimed at increasing productivity and reducing losses. In education, entries could focus on digital learning platforms, interactive teaching tools, and solutions that expand access to quality education nationwide. For infrastructure, proposals may range from intelligent urban planning technologies to sustainable energy systems and advanced construction solutions that improve efficiency and resilience.

NASENI stressed that the contest is an opportunity for public institutions to demonstrate how innovation can address critical national challenges, enhance public service delivery, and accelerate economic growth. The agency encouraged all MDAs to participate, emphasizing the potential for collaboration across sectors to scale solutions that benefit the nation.