The General Manager External Relations and Sustainable Development at the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), Sophia Horsfall, says that 112 entries were received this year for the $100,000 Nigeria Prize for Science sponsored by the NLNG.
Speaking at the Handover of Entries for the Nigeria Prize for Science on Tuesday in Lagos, she stated that this annual event represents a significant moment in NLNG’s commitment to advancing scientific excellence and innovations in Nigeria.
She congratulated everyone who successfully submitted their innovations for the 2025 contest.
“Your participation is clear a demonstration of your interest in harnessing science as a tool to address social challenges. It reflects a shared vision with NLNG of improving lives sustainably, through innovation. The prize relies on the quality of your entries to build the muscle for global reckon. As the prize grows stronger, so will the honour of the winners rising to the top,” she said.
According to her, the theme for the 2025 cycle, “Innovations in ICT, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Digital Technologies for Development,” reflects a critical area of transformation in today’s world. Digital technologies are reshaping economies and societies, and nations investing in AI and ICT are seeing exponential benefits—creating new industries, expanding access to services, and driving productivity.
“These technologies hold transformative potential for Nigeria. As Africa’s largest economy and home to a vast pool of young talent, innovations in digital technology can help us build scalable solutions with global relevance and drive sustainable socio-economic development.
“This progress would not be possible without the dedicated efforts of our esteemed Advisory Board for their continued leadership and excellence in administering the prize.
“On behalf of NLNG, I hand over the 112 entries to the Advisory Board who will transmit them to our distinguished panel of judges to commence the adjudication process. We eagerly anticipate a robust evaluation process and look forward to celebrating outstanding innovations,” she added.
According to the statement by Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, NKNG, the winning entry for the 2025 Prize will be unveiled at a world press conference scheduled for September.
She disclosed that Horsfall, formally handed over the 112 entries to the Advisory Board, chaired by renowned scientist Professor Barth Nnaji.
She added that the handover marks the start of a rigorous evaluation process, during which a panel of distinguished judges will assess entries based on merit, originality, and potential impact on national development. The competition is expected to be intense, reflecting rising global interest and innovation in AI and digital technology.
“This year’s Prize seeks to spotlight pioneering research and bold solutions that harness technologies to empower industries, uplift societies, and transform Nigeria’s development trajectory.
“These technologies hold immense transformative potential for Nigeria. As Africa’s largest economy and a nation blessed with a vibrant pool of young talent, we have a unique opportunity to harness digital innovation to develop scalable, globally relevant solutions that will drive sustainable socio-economic development,” she said.
Receiving the entries, Professor Barth Nnaji, expressed his appreciation for the number of submissions.
“The Board is greatly encouraged by the volume of entries. The 2025 competition is shaping up to be intensely competitive, and we are confident it will showcase outstanding innovation,” he said.
He emphasised the transformative power of AI and digital technologies across sectors: “AI is rapidly reshaping nearly every aspect of modern life, driving innovation, improving efficiency, and unlocking new possibilities across industries.”
“In healthcare, AI enhances diagnostic accuracy and speed through advanced imaging and predictive tools. In education, it personalises learning experiences, helping teachers address challenges early using intelligent tutors and automated assessments. In agriculture, AI enables precision farming by analysing sensor and satellite data to improve crop management and forecast yields. These sector-wide transformations underscore AI’s growing role as a catalyst for innovation and sustainable progress,” he said.
Other members of the Board are Nike Akande, a two-time former Minister of Industry, and Professor Baba Yusuf Abubakar, a professor of quantitative genetics and animal breeding.
“The Prize continues to champion innovation, creativity, and scientific excellence as key drivers of Nigeria’s development, while fostering a culture of research that positions the country at the forefront of global innovation.
“The winning entry for the 2025 Prize will be unveiled at a world press conference scheduled for September,” she added.
GIK/APA