NLNG's $100k Science Prize Goes Unclaimed in 2025

The Nigeria Prize for Science Goes Unawarded for the Fifth Time

For the fifth time in its 21-year history, the Nigeria Prize for Science has gone unawarded. This year’s edition, which received a total of 112 entries, failed to meet the high standards required for the prestigious award. The decision was made by the judging panel after a thorough evaluation process, and it was announced in Lagos by Professor Barth Nnaji, Chairman of the Advisory Board.

Professor Nnaji emphasized that this outcome was not taken lightly. He stated that the decision was necessary to preserve the integrity and legacy of Africa’s most significant science prize. “After a rigorous adjudication of the 112 entries received this year, none was found suitable for the Prize. To lower the bar would be to betray the trust of the public and diminish the legacy of the Prize itself,” he said.

The Nigeria Prize for Science is more than just an award; it is a platform that recognizes creativity, originality, and scientific rigor. With a cash prize of $100,000, it aims to reward work that advances knowledge and contributes to development. “The Prize exists to celebrate only the finest achievements, work that embodies originality, withstands scrutiny, and elevates scientific discourse. Where these qualities are absent, we cannot, in good conscience, bestow the Prize,” Professor Nnaji added.

Despite the lack of a winner, the Advisory Board commended all participants for their efforts. Their submissions reflected discipline and a desire to contribute to both national and global scientific conversations. “Excellence is beyond effort; it requires innovation, mastery of craft, and the ability to leave a lasting mark on human thought and development,” he stressed.

This year’s outcome is not the first time the Prize has been withheld. It was also not awarded in 2005, 2007, during the period between 2011 and 2016, and again in 2021. However, Professor Nnaji encouraged Nigerian scientists to view this as a challenge rather than a setback. He urged them to aim higher and continue pushing the boundaries of scientific innovation.

The theme for the 2025 edition, “Innovations in ICT, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Technologies for Development,” will remain for the 2026 edition. This decision is aimed at attracting a wider pool of innovators, especially in the fast-evolving field of Artificial Intelligence. By retaining the theme, the Advisory Board hopes to encourage more groundbreaking work in these critical areas.

The judging panel for 2025 was chaired by Dr. Omobola Johnson, Senior Partner at TLcom Capital and former Minister of Communication Technology in Nigeria. Other members included Prof. Collins Udanor from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and Prof. Aminu Muhammad Bui from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.

Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at Nigeria LNG Limited, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to celebrating scientific excellence despite the outcome. She highlighted the importance of supporting innovation and recognizing outstanding contributions to science and technology.

Now in its 21st year, the Nigeria Prize for Science continues to serve as one of the continent’s most coveted platforms for promoting homegrown innovation. It remains a beacon for researchers, scientists, and innovators across Africa, inspiring them to pursue excellence and make meaningful contributions to the global scientific community.