Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards: Celebrating Excellence in Nigerian Tech

The Nigerian Tech Innovation Awards stand as a prestigious platform that celebrates the brightest minds and boldest ideas shaping Nigeria’s technology and innovation landscape.

Established in 2023 by visionary leader Chimaobi Anyanwu, the awards have quickly become a symbol of recognition for individuals, startups, and organizations driving transformative change in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.

NTIA honor exceptional achievements and innovative contributions that tackle critical challenges, foster sustainable development, and propel Nigeria’s technological advancement.

A highlight of the event is the annual recognition of ten emerging tech stars—pioneers whose groundbreaking work is reshaping industries and positively impacting communities across the country.

With a mission to inspire creativity, perseverance, and problem-solving, the awards not only spotlight talent but also amplify the voices of tech entrepreneurs, sparking conversations about the crucial role of technology in driving Nigeria’s economic and social progress.

Since its inception, the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards has served as a powerful testament to the impact of innovation, motivating stakeholders to push boundaries and contribute to the growth and global competitiveness of Africa’s tech sector.

What is the NTIA Awards?

The NTIA aims to recognize individuals, startups, and organizations driving transformative change within Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. By spotlighting excellence in various categories, the awards serve as a catalyst for continued growth and innovation in the industry.

The NTIA encompasses multiple categories, including Product Marketing, Content Creation, Cinema, Emerging Product of the Year, Digital Marketing, Social Impact, and Women Empowerment.

Notably, the awards also honor Male and Female Entrepreneurs of the Year, acknowledging the brightest rising stars in the Nigerian tech Industry.

Through this initiative, the NTIA not only celebrates excellence but also fosters a culture of creativity, perseverance, and problem-solving within the African tech landscape.

By providing a platform to showcase innovative work, the awards encourage a broader conversation about the role of technology in driving economic and social progress in Nigeria.

Eligibility Criteria for the NTIA Awards

These criteria collectively ensure that the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards celebrate sustainable, impactful, and scalable innovations driven by Nigerian companies that are shaping the future of technology in Africa.

1. Must be registered in Nigeria, with at least 50% Nigerian ownership

This ensures that the awards primarily celebrate and promote Nigerian-grown innovation and entrepreneurship. It emphasizes local content and supports the development of homegrown solutions that address Nigeria’s unique challenges. By prioritizing Nigerian ownership, the awards encourage capacity-building within the country, helping to create jobs, transfer skills, and strengthen the local tech ecosystem.

2. A minimum of 5 years in operation within the tech or tech-enabled sector

Sustainability and impact take time. This requirement ensures that nominees have a proven track record of resilience, growth, and relevance in the sector. Operating successfully for five years shows that a company has navigated Nigeria’s complex business landscape, adapted to challenges, and consistently delivered value to customers and stakeholders.

3. Must have a presence in at least two Nigerian states, either through branches, deployments, or service coverage

This criterion promotes inclusive innovation by recognizing companies that extend their impact beyond major urban hubs like Lagos and Abuja. It ensures that awarded companies are contributing to digital inclusion, reaching underrepresented areas, and making technology accessible to a wider segment of Nigeria’s population.

4. Preferably provide audited financial statements for the last three fiscal years

Transparency is key to building trust. Audited financials demonstrate accountability, good corporate governance, and operational stability. This requirement assures the judging panel that the company is financially healthy and can sustain its innovation efforts over the long term.

5. Annual revenue should exceed USD 10 million

This benchmark highlights companies with substantial market impact. By recognizing organizations that have achieved significant revenue, the awards focus on scalable, commercially viable solutions that have proven their value in the market. These companies are likely driving large-scale innovation and influencing industry trends.

6. Must showcase scalable tech innovations (AI, IoT, software platforms, cloud solutions, etc.) that have improved operations or user outcomes

The heart of the awards is innovation. This requirement ensures that nominees are not only using technology but are also driving measurable improvements—whether in efficiency, customer experience, or solving societal challenges. The focus on scalable solutions highlights innovations that can be adapted across industries, regions, and markets, amplifying their impact.

7. Willing to submit detailed case studies or documentation of their innovation pipelines or R&D initiatives

Innovation is an ongoing process, not a one-time achievement. This criterion recognizes companies that are investing in research and development, have a clear innovation strategy, and are transparent about their processes and outcomes. It ensures that award recipients are forward-thinking and have a strong pipeline of future innovations to contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.

Award Categories and Notable Recipients

These categories and recipients exemplify the diverse and dynamic nature of Nigeria’s tech industry, highlighting innovation, leadership, and social impact across various sectors.

1. Tech Company of the Year

The Corporate Excellence Category of the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards recognizes organizations that exemplify innovation, impact, and leadership within Nigeria’s dynamic technology ecosystem.

In the 2024 edition, IHS Towers was awarded for its outstanding contribution to telecommunications infrastructure and digital connectivity across the country.

As one of the largest independent tower operators globally, IHS Towers has been instrumental in expanding Nigeria’s digital landscape, managing over 16,000 towers across various regions.

Their efforts have significantly improved network coverage, enabling millions of Nigerians to access reliable communication services. Beyond expansion, IHS Towers was commended for its sustainability initiatives, which include reducing carbon emissions, implementing renewable energy solutions, and driving community development projects.

By receiving this prestigious honor, IHS Towers exemplifies the mission of the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards: to spotlight and encourage transformative leadership that advances technology’s role in improving lives and strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global tech economy.

2. Most Innovative Tech Company of the Year

The Innovation of the Year Category of the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards recognizes companies that introduce groundbreaking technologies or services with the potential to transform industries and communities. One notable recipient is Farmcrowdy, founded by Onyeka Akumah.

Farmcrowdy was celebrated for its innovative digital platform, which connects smallholder farmers with investors to drive food production and improve agricultural yields across Nigeria. By leveraging technology, Farmcrowdy has revolutionized the agriculture sector, enhancing access to funding, inputs, and market linkages for thousands of farmers.

Their model has not only improved food security but also created opportunities for rural communities, driving inclusive growth and sustainability. The recognition of Farmcrowdy underlines the NTIA’s mission to showcase innovations that solve real-world challenges, empower communities, and contribute to Nigeria’s long-term development goals.

Farmcrowdy’s success story is a testament to the transformative power of technology in reshaping traditional industries for the better.

3. Tech Start-Up of the Year

The Emerging Company of the Year Category at the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards celebrates promising companies that are creating a lasting impact through innovative solutions and business models.

In 2024, Party Jollof Africa was recognized in this category for its unique approach to blending technology with cultural experiences in Nigeria’s entertainment and event planning sectors.

Party Jollof Africa has developed digital platforms that simplify event coordination, ticketing, and vendor management, while also highlighting the richness of African culture through curated experiences. Their work has redefined how Nigerians engage with events, enabling seamless planning, secure transactions, and enhanced accessibility for a wider audience.

By leveraging technology to connect people with cultural events and entertainment opportunities, Party Jollof Africa is contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s creative economy and fostering a sense of community. This award highlights their role as an emerging force in the Nigerian tech ecosystem.

4. Tech Entrepreneur of the Year

The Tech Leadership Excellence Category at the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards celebrates individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, vision, and innovation within Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.

In 2024, Olugbenga Agboola, CEO of Flutterwave, was honored for his remarkable contributions to the fintech industry and the broader digital economy in Africa.

Agboola’s leadership has transformed Flutterwave into one of Africa’s leading payment technology companies, providing seamless and secure digital payment solutions that connect businesses and individuals across the continent. Through his innovative approach, Flutterwave has facilitated billions of dollars in transactions, empowered small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and driven financial inclusion.

Agboola’s vision extends beyond Nigeria, as Flutterwave has expanded its services to multiple African countries, promoting cross-border trade and fostering a unified digital economy. His recognition at the NTIA underscores the importance of strong leadership in scaling technology solutions and driving transformative change across industries.

5. Tech PR Consultant of the Year

The Tech Communicator of the Year Category at the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards honors professionals who excel in communicating complex tech innovations and bridging the gap between technology and the public.

In 2024, Femi Isaac Olatunji received this award for his exceptional work in tech public relations (PR), which has been instrumental in shaping how the Nigerian public understands and engages with technological advancements.

Through strategic storytelling, media outreach, and stakeholder engagement, Olatunji has significantly elevated the visibility of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. His efforts have helped demystify complex technologies, promote key innovations, and ensure that the narratives around digital transformation are inclusive and accessible.

By amplifying the voices of innovators and startups, Olatunji has played a vital role in building public trust and excitement around emerging tech solutions. His recognition at the NTIA highlights the essential role of effective communication in fostering a thriving and informed tech community in Nigeria.

6. Data Centre Lifetime Achievement Award

The Data Infrastructure Pioneer Award at the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards recognizes individuals who have made long-standing and impactful contributions to building Nigeria’s data and digital infrastructure. In 2024, Ikechukwu Nnamani, CEO of Medallion Communications, was honored for his outstanding leadership and pioneering efforts in advancing Nigeria’s data center landscape.

Under Nnamani’s guidance, Medallion Communications has become a key player in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, providing critical data hosting, connectivity, and interconnection services that power the country’s growing digital economy.

His vision and expertise have been instrumental in addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure gaps, ensuring secure, reliable, and accessible data services that support businesses, government institutions, and the broader society.

Nnamani’s commitment to fostering digital transformation has not only improved Nigeria’s technological capabilities but also enhanced its competitiveness in the global digital arena. His recognition at the NTIA underscores the vital role of data infrastructure in driving sustainable development and innovation.

7. Emerging Tech Entrepreneur of the Year

The Digital Marketing Innovator Award at the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards celebrates individuals and organizations demonstrating visionary approaches to digital marketing and fostering growth in Nigeria’s online business ecosystem.

In 2024, Temitope Godwin Orilua, Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Digital Business Nigeria, was honored for his innovative strategies that have transformed how Nigerian businesses engage with digital audiences.

Orilua’s creative marketing frameworks and data-driven campaigns have empowered businesses of all sizes to harness the power of digital tools, expand their reach, and achieve measurable growth. Through training programs, mentorship, and tailored marketing solutions, he has helped numerous entrepreneurs and startups scale their operations and build sustainable online businesses.

His recognition at the NTIA highlights the critical role of digital marketing in driving economic development, promoting digital literacy, and unlocking new opportunities in Nigeria’s fast-growing digital economy.

8. CinemaX Tech Award

The Tech in Film and Digital Cinema Award at the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards recognizes innovative use of emerging technologies in filmmaking, enhancing storytelling, production quality, and audience engagement. In 2024, Boma Akpore received this prestigious honor for his groundbreaking contributions to Nigeria’s film industry.

Akpore has been a trailblazer in integrating cutting-edge technologies such as virtual production, augmented reality (AR), and advanced post-production techniques into Nigerian cinema. His work has elevated the visual standards of local films, enabling them to compete on global platforms while telling distinctly African stories.

Beyond technical innovation, Akpore’s projects have opened new avenues for young creatives, bridging the gap between technology and storytelling.

His recognition at the NTIA highlights the transformative impact of tech in Nigeria’s creative economy, inspiring filmmakers to embrace innovation as a tool for cultural expression, industry growth, and global recognition.

9. Digital Marketing Award

The Digital Engagement Strategist of the Year award at the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards honors individuals who have excelled in crafting impactful, data-driven digital strategies that drive measurable results. In 2024, Kelvin Olumese was recognized for his exceptional work in connecting brands with Gen Z and millennial audiences through innovative digital campaigns.

Olumese’s approach combines creativity with analytics, enabling brands to reach and resonate with younger demographics across various digital platforms.

His campaigns have significantly boosted brand engagement, increased online visibility, and driven audience participation for both startups and established companies in Nigeria’s dynamic market.

By understanding the digital habits and preferences of Nigeria’s youth, Olumese has been able to design strategies that not only capture attention but also inspire action. His recognition at the NTIA highlights the importance of forward-thinking digital strategies in building brand loyalty and driving business success in the digital age.

10. Social Impact Award

The Tech for Social Impact Award at the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards celebrates individuals and organizations using technology to drive meaningful social change and improve lives.

In 2024, Adeola Edema was recognized for her groundbreaking work through the Austic Program, a digital-driven initiative that supports individuals with autism, promotes inclusivity, and raises public awareness about neurodiversity in Nigeria.

Through the Austic Program, Edema leverages digital tools such as virtual therapy sessions, assistive communication apps, and online awareness campaigns to provide critical resources for families and caregivers.

Her innovative use of technology bridges gaps in access to support services, empowering individuals with autism to thrive and participate fully in society.

Edema’s recognition at the NTIA underscores the power of technology as a force for inclusion and equality. Her work sets a benchmark for using digital solutions to address complex social challenges and foster a more compassionate, connected, and inclusive Nigeria.

Significance of the NTIA

The Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards (NTIA) play a crucial role in fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and globally competitive technology ecosystem in Nigeria.

By spotlighting excellence in the tech sector, the awards inspire innovation, drive healthy competition, and encourage the development of solutions that address Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.

NTIA serves as a platform to honor trailblazers—individuals, startups, and organizations—who are shaping the future of technology in Nigeria and across Africa.

It also amplifies their voices, giving them greater visibility to investors, policymakers, and global stakeholders, while fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving.

Importantly, the awards reinforce the significance of local ownership and innovation, ensuring that Nigerian tech solutions are tailored to local needs and challenges.

By recognizing the contributions of diverse players across industries such as fintech, agritech, healthtech, and edtech, the NTIA also promotes cross-sectoral collaboration.

FAQs

What is the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards (NTIA)?

The NTIA is an annual awards event that celebrates outstanding achievements in Nigeria’s technology and innovation sectors.

Who can be nominated for the NTIA Awards?

Nominees must be registered entities in Nigeria with at least 50% Nigerian ownership, a minimum of five years in operation, and a presence in at least two states.

Why is the NTIA important for Nigeria’s tech industry?

The NTIA provides vital recognition for innovators, fostering a culture of excellence, competition, and collaboration.

Conclusion

As Nigeria continues to establish itself as a hub for technological advancement in Africa, the Nigerian Tech & Innovation Awards play a crucial role in spotlighting the individuals and organizations leading this transformation.

Through its comprehensive recognition of excellence, NTIA fosters an environment where innovation thrives, and the future of technology in Nigeria looks increasingly promising.