Adjudication has officially commenced for the 2025 edition of the Nigeria Prize for Science, with a record 112 entries handed over on Tuesday to the advisory board for onward assessment by a panel of eminent judges.
Sponsored by the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), the $100,000 prize, Africa’s richest science award, is aimed at recognising and rewarding groundbreaking scientific innovations with the potential to transform industries and drive sustainable development in Nigeria.
This year’s theme is “Innovations in ICT, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Technologies for Development.”
NLNG’s general manager for external relations and sustainable development, Dr Sophia Horsfall, officially transferred the entries to the prize’s advisory board, led by former minister of science and technology, Prof Barth Nnaji, in Lagos on Tuesday.
Dr. Horsfall described the volume of entries as a “record-breaking milestone,” highlighting that each submission reflects Nigeria’s growing scientific ambition.
“Digital technologies are reshaping economies and societies globally. With our youthful population and vibrant tech ecosystem, Nigeria stands poised to leverage AI and digital innovation for inclusive and scalable growth,” she said.
The prize, which is open to both Nigerians and non-Nigerians worldwide, seeks bold and practical scientific solutions to real-world problems.
Entries will be judged based on originality, merit and their potential impact on national development.
Prof. Nnaji commended the level of interest and reiterated the transformative role of AI across key sectors, including healthcare, agriculture and education.
“AI is revolutionising diagnostic accuracy, personalising education, and enabling precision farming,” he said, noting that the prize aims to position Nigeria as a key player in global scientific innovation.
Other members of the advisory board include two-time former minister of industry, Nike Akandem and Yusuf Abubakar, an expert in quantitative genetics and animal breeding.
The winner of the 2025 edition of the Nigeria Prize for Science will be announced at a world press conference in September.
