A total of 112 submissions have been received for the 2025 Nigeria Prize for Science, an annual award organized by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) to celebrate groundbreaking scientific achievements. This year’s theme, “Innovations in ICT, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Digital Technologies for Development,” focuses on the role of science and technology in driving Nigeria’s digital transformation, strengthening industries, and addressing national development challenges.
The entries were officially handed over to the Prize’s Advisory Board during a high-level ceremony in Lagos. NLNG’s General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development described the volume of submissions as evidence of a deepening culture of innovation within and beyond Nigeria. She noted that the growing interest in AI and digital solutions aligns with Nigeria’s position as Africa’s largest economy and a fertile ground for transformative tech development, especially given its youthful population and rapidly evolving digital environment.
The Chair of the Advisory Board, a prominent scientist, welcomed the submissions and praised their depth and diversity. He emphasized the critical role that artificial intelligence already plays in real-world applications such as precision agriculture, intelligent health systems, and tailored learning environments. According to him, the entries signal a competitive selection process likely to uncover impactful breakthroughs with real-life benefits.
An independent panel of judges will now evaluate each submission based on originality, scientific merit, and potential societal impact. The Prize aims to recognize and reward exceptional contributions from both Nigerian-based scientists and those in the diaspora.
Also serving on the Advisory Board are a former Minister of Industry and an expert in quantitative genetics and animal breeding, bringing additional depth and interdisciplinary perspective to the selection process. The $100,000 prize is one of the continent’s most prestigious recognitions of scientific excellence and is expected to highlight work that can shape the digital and technological future of Nigeria and Africa at large.
