Nigerian fintech giant OPay has announced a major expansion of its ₦1.2 billion 10-year scholarship programme, introducing a new Innovation Challenge in partnership with Google to empower students with digital and problem-solving skills.
The initiative, which is part of OPay’s long-term commitment to education and youth development in Nigeria, aims to support thousands of students across tertiary institutions while encouraging innovation powered by artificial intelligence and technology.
Originally launched to provide financial assistance to deserving students, the OPay scholarship programme has become one of the largest private-sector education support initiatives in Nigeria. The company says the expanded programme will not only reduce the financial burden on students but also prepare young Nigerians for opportunities in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
One of the biggest highlights of the 2026 edition is the introduction of the OPay Innovation Challenge, developed in collaboration with Google. The challenge is designed to encourage undergraduate students to identify real-life problems in their communities and build practical technology-driven solutions.
Participants are expected to work in teams of five and develop innovative ideas using digital tools, including Google’s Gemini AI platform. According to the organisers, the competition will focus on creativity, impact, scalability, and the effective use of technology to solve pressing challenges.
Applications for the Innovation Challenge opened on May 25, 2026, and will run until June 14, 2026. The organisers revealed that winning teams will receive significant financial rewards and access to mentorship opportunities.
The grand prize winner will receive ₦10 million, while the first and second runners-up will take home ₦5 million and ₦3 million respectively. Beyond the cash prizes, participants will also benefit from bootcamps, training sessions, webinars, and networking opportunities with industry experts.
OPay noted that the expanded scholarship initiative reflects its vision of building a stronger future for Nigerian youths through education, innovation, and digital inclusion. The company believes that combining financial support with innovation-focused programmes will help students gain practical skills that are increasingly important in today’s job market.
Google’s involvement also signals the growing importance of AI and digital technology in shaping the next generation of African innovators. By integrating AI tools into the competition, students will gain exposure to technologies that are transforming industries globally.
Education stakeholders and technology enthusiasts have praised the initiative, describing it as a timely investment in Nigeria’s future workforce and innovation ecosystem.
Interested students can apply through the official OPay Innovation Challenge portal before the deadline. With rising education costs and increasing demand for digital skills, the programme presents a valuable opportunity for Nigerian undergraduates to secure funding, develop innovative ideas, and gain exposure in the tech industry.
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