Fintech company OPay has officially opened applications for the 2026 edition of its National Innovation Challenge, giving Nigerian undergraduate students the opportunity to win millions of naira in grants, scholarships, mentorship opportunities, internships, and possible job placements.
The programme, launched in partnership with Google, is part of OPay’s expanded ₦1.2 billion, 10-year education support initiative aimed at empowering young Nigerians with innovation and digital skills.
According to OPay, the challenge is designed to encourage students to build technology-driven solutions capable of solving real-life African problems across sectors such as fintech, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, healthtech, agritech, climate technology, education technology, and digital business solutions.
The company disclosed that applicants must participate in teams of five undergraduate students from any accredited tertiary institution in Nigeria. Teams are expected to identify real-world problems and present practical technology-based solutions that can create social and economic impact.
Applications for the challenge opened on May 25, 2026, and will close on June 14, 2026.
Prize Categories and Benefits
OPay revealed that the winning team will receive a ₦10 million project grant alongside a ₦300,000 scholarship award, mentorship from industry experts, prototype development support, national media recognition, and possible employment opportunities.
The second-place team will receive a ₦5 million project grant and scholarship support, while the third-place winners will receive ₦3 million in project funding, fellowship opportunities, and mentorship benefits.
Beyond the financial rewards, shortlisted participants will also gain access to webinars, innovation bootcamps, career development sessions, internships, and networking opportunities with technology experts and investors.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the OPay Innovation Challenge 2026, applicants must:
Be undergraduate students in Nigerian tertiary institutions
Apply as a team of five students
Demonstrate creativity and problem-solving skills
Show proficiency in AI-assisted design workflows, especially Canva and Gemini
Have a minimum CGPA of 2.8/4.0 for Polytechnics and Colleges
Have a minimum CGPA of 3.5/5.0 for Universities
OPay added that preference may be given to students facing financial hardship.
How to Apply
Interested students can apply through the official OPay Innovation Challenge portal below: OPay Innovation Challenge Portal
Applicants are expected to complete the application form, submit their team details, upload required documents, and present their innovation idea before the deadline. Accepted file formats include PDF, JPEG, and MP4.
Programme Timeline
According to details released by OPay, the programme will run in several stages:
May – June 2026: Applications and screening
June – August 2026: Webinar sessions and examinations
August – September 2026: Virtual innovation bootcamp
July – December 2026: Mentorship, internships, and career opportunities
November 2026: Grand finale pitch event
Speaking on the initiative, OPay said the programme is designed to help Nigerian students gain practical digital skills, innovation exposure, and career opportunities needed to succeed in Africa’s rapidly growing digital economy.