Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Nigeria Prize for Science, sponsored by NLNG for the fifth time in its history, remained unawarded this year as judges stated that none of the 112 submissions for the 2025 edition met the high standards necessary for the esteemed award.
Making the announcement in Lagos, Professor Barth Nnaji, Chairman of the Advisory Board, stated that the decision was not made easily but was essential to safeguard the integrity and reputation of Africa’s largest science award.
“After thoroughly reviewing the 112 submissions received this year, none was deemed appropriate for the Prize. Lowering the standards would be a betrayal of public trust and would harm the prestige of the Prize,” said Prof. Nnaji.
He highlighted that the Prize, which includes a monetary reward of $100,000, goes beyond merely acknowledging hard work; it is about celebrating innovation, uniqueness, and scientific accuracy that contribute to the growth of knowledge and progress.
“The Nigeria Prize aims to honor only the most outstanding accomplishments, works that demonstrate originality, endure examination, and enhance scientific discussion. When these attributes are lacking, we cannot, with integrity, present the Prize,” he added.
Professor Nnaji praised everyone who submitted entries, highlighting that their work demonstrated dedication and a willingness to participate in both national and international scientific discussions.
“Excellence goes beyond hard work; it demands creativity, expertise in one’s field, and the capacity to make a significant impact on human ideas and progress,” he emphasized.
This year’s disappointment is not without precedent. The award was also not given in 2005, 2007, during the break between 2011 and 2016, and once more in 2021. Professor Nnaji encouraged Nigerian scientists not to lose heart but to see the result as an opportunity to strive for greater achievements.
The Advisory Board also stated that the 2025 theme — “Innovations in ICT, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Technologies for Development” — will remain for the 2026 edition in order to draw a broader range of innovators, especially within the rapidly changing area of Artificial Intelligence.
The 2025 judging panel was led by Dr. Omobola Johnson, a Senior Partner at TLcom Capital and former Nigerian Minister of Communication Technology, with participants such as Prof. Collins Udanor from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and Prof. Aminu Muhammad Bui of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.
Sophia Horsfall, the General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development at Nigeria LNG Limited, stated once again the company’s dedication to honoring scientific achievement regardless of the results.
Now in its 21st year, the Nigeria Prize for Science continues to be one of Africa’s most sought-after venues for encouraging local innovation.