Federal government has awarded N50 million each to 45 students selected from 65 finalists drawn from public and private tertiary institutions nationwide under the Student Venture Capital Grant (S-VCG).
Tunji Alausa, minister of Education, unveiled the initiative at the weekend at the United Nations Development Programme Innovation Hub in Ikoyi, Lagos, describing it as a bold step toward positioning Nigerian youth as drivers of global innovation.
Alausa said the programme marked a significant shift in education policy, aimed at empowering students through innovation, entrepreneurship, and skills development. He noted that the grant offers equity-free funding, mentorship, incubation, and access to digital tools.
He explained that the beneficiaries emerged after a rigorous selection process involving over 30,000 applicants from more than 400 tertiary institutions across the country, culminating in a three-day bootcamp and pitch session before industry experts.
According to the minister, the initiative is designed to transform tertiary institutions into hubs of innovation and economic development, enabling students to move from ideation to commercialisation and become job creators.
“Today is not just another programme event. We are activating a new future for Nigerian students where great ideas are nurtured into impactful solutions,” he said.
Also speaking, Suwaiba Ahmad, minister of State for Education, described student entrepreneurship as a critical national strategy for job creation and economic growth. She emphasised the need for institutions to move beyond theory and support students in translating ideas into viable enterprises.
Similarly, Bosun Tijani, minister of Communications and Digital Economy, commended the initiative, urging beneficiaries to focus on building sustainable and impactful solutions rather than pursuing short-term gains.
He advised students to adopt consistency and long-term thinking, noting that small, sustained efforts could lead to meaningful innovation and societal impact.
In her goodwill message, Elsie Attafuah reaffirmed the commitment of the United Nations to supporting Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.
She encouraged beneficiaries to refine their ideas, respond to market needs, and contribute meaningfully to national development through innovative solutions.
The minister acknowledged key partners, including the UNDP, Google, and the Bank of Industry, for their support in implementing the initiative and expanding opportunities for young innovators across Nigeria.
