Welcome to NEXTGEN 2026 — Inspiring Innovation. Driving Change. Shaping the Future.

The NEXTGEN Innovation Challenge 2026 is proudly organised by the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) — a Federal Government agency under the leadership of Dr. Kazeem Kolawole Raji, in partnership with UKALD, a UK-based consultancy firm.

The Challenge is Nigeria’s leading innovation platform — connecting visionary entrepreneurs, researchers, and young talents with global investors, governments, and development partners to accelerate the growth of transformative ideas and technologies.

About NEXTGEN 2025

The 2025 Edition achieved remarkable success and international recognition:

Officially adopted by the Commonwealth for implementation across 56 member states.
Featured 105 top innovators from across Nigeria, representing diverse sectors and regions.
Concluded with a prestigious Grand Finale in London, where the winning innovator secured £1.5 million in investment support to scale an advanced solar platform.
Included customised training at Teesside University, United Kingdom.
Featured in an upcoming BBC documentary showcasing Nigerian innovation excellence.
Fostered global collaborations with Innovation Africa (Israel), HYPREP, and other international partners — culminating in a joint presentation at Chatham House, London (December 2025).

NEXTGEN 2026: Developing Nigeria’s Innovation Ecosystem

Building on this strong foundation, the 2026 Edition will further unite academia, government, and private investors to accelerate innovation in alignment with Nigeria’s national priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

NEXTGEN 2026 aims to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem, create a platform for commercialising indigenous technologies, and position the country as a regional hub for science, technology, and innovation excellence.

NextGen 2026 will be strategically focused

on life-transforming innovations across key sectors:

Designed to streamline tasks, boost productivity, and deliver seamless user experiences across different platforms.

Software & App Development

Intelligent systems and autonomous machines that perform complex tasks and improve efficiency through automation and advanced algorithms.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Robotics

Next-generation communication technologies combining ultra-fast 6G networks with AI to deliver seamless connectivity and smarter automation.

Future telecom – 6G and AI integration

Smart devices that enhance security and provide real-time tracking to protect people, assets, and vehicles through GPS, sensors, and alert systems.

Safety and Tracking Devices

Eco-friendly innovations that generate clean power from renewable sources while promoting sustainable energy solutions.

Green and Renewable Energy Technologies

Advanced monitoring and early-warning technologies that help predict flooding, assess climate risks, and enhance preparedness.

Climate Resilience & Flood Detection Systems

Solutions that empower women in technology, promote equal opportunities, and drive innovation through diverse and inclusive perspectives.

Women in Tech & Gender-Inclusive Innovation

Event Timeline

Kick Off

February 2026

3-Day Innovation Boot Camp

July 2026, Abuja — featuring expert-led training, prototype development, and mentorship with the support of Teesside University (UK), Google, and other international partners.

Grande Finale

October 2026, London (ExCeL Centre) Or Toronto Canada — where top innovators will showcase their solutions to a global audience of investors, policymakers, and industry leaders.

Register for NEXTGEN 2026

Be part of the next generation of innovators transforming Africa and the world.

Click Here to Register

Submit your entry before May 28^th, 2026.
Selected innovators will be invited for screening, mentorship, and participation in the NEXTGEN 2026 Boot Camp and Grand Finale.