Schneider Electric, in partnership with Enactus, has crowned the winners of the 2025 Enactus Nigeria National Competition, an annual showcase of youth-driven innovation in energy and sustainability. The event, which drew participation from more than 33 universities across federal, state, and private institutions, spotlighted groundbreaking solutions from Nigerian students tackling real-world challenges.
The competition featured two flagship initiatives: the Battery Innovation Challenge and the Core Program. Both platforms empower students to design sustainable technologies and entrepreneurial models that address pressing community needs, while building capacity for the future of work.
In the Battery Innovation Challenge, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JoSTUM) clinched first place with ENERGIV, a technology that transforms plastic waste into carbon nanotubes to enhance lithium-ion batteries, improving conductivity and durability. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) secured second place with Cell Matrix, a machine learning-based battery management system that uses embedded sensors to monitor battery health, detect anomalies, and optimise charging cycles. Kaduna Polytechnic finished third with SmartVolt, an adaptive charging algorithm that relies on real-time data to intelligently regulate charging speeds, extending battery life and reducing energy waste.
The winners received cash prizes sponsored by Schneider Electric, with €2,000 awarded for first place, €1,500 for second, and €1,000 for third.
JoSTUM also emerged as National Champion of the Enactus Core Program with BettaCoal Energies, a startup pioneering clean cooking and eco-friendly packaging. Its solutions include smokeless briquettes, an improved stove design for faster cooking, and biodegradable food containers for restaurants. The team will represent Nigeria at the Enactus World Cup 2025, scheduled to take place in Bangkok, Thailand, from September 25 to 28.
Speaking at the national finals, Schneider Electric’s Country President for Nigeria, Ajibola Akindele, emphasised the company’s commitment to youth empowerment. He noted that one of the firm’s core values is creating impact, adding that young innovators are already solving real problems and deserve platforms that scale their work.
Funmilayo Olakitan, Access to Education Coordinator at Schneider Electric West Africa, described the competition as inspiring, praising the students for developing entrepreneurial and business skills that will prepare them for future challenges. She reiterated the company’s goal to train one million youths by 2025, directly contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7, 11, and 12.
Enactus Nigeria Country Director, Michael Ajayi, hailed the creativity and commitment of participants, stressing that the partnership between Schneider Electric and Enactus is not only building capacity but also inspiring a generation to embrace sustainable entrepreneurship.
The finals attracted key stakeholders from the energy and education sectors, further highlighting the role of public-private partnerships in nurturing innovation and expanding opportunities for young people in Nigeria.
