Yemisi Izuora
Ecobank Nigeria has called on young Nigerians, particularly students, innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives aged 16 to 25, to take advantage of the ongoing registration for InnovateX 2026, the Bank’s flagship youth innovation challenge offering ₦20 million in prizes, mentorship, business development support, and access to industry experts.
Powered by Blaze by Ecobank in partnership with Verve, InnovateX 2026 is designed to identify and support the next generation of innovators and creators developing solutions across inclusive finance, as well as the creative economy.
Beyond the financial support, participants will benefit from an intensive innovation journey featuring hybrid bootcamps, expert-led workshops, mentorship sessions, networking opportunities, and a grand finale pitch competition where finalists will showcase their ideas before a panel of industry leaders and investors.
The competition is open to young Nigerians working on innovative projects in technology, engineering, science, product design, content creation, digital media, entertainment, fashion, and other creative disciplines.
Encouraging young Nigerians to register, Victor Yalokwu, Head, Products & Analytics, Ecobank Nigeria, said: “Nigeria is blessed with an abundance of young talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial energy. Through InnovateX, we are providing a platform for young people to transform bold ideas into impactful solutions and sustainable businesses. We encourage students, innovators, tech enthusiasts, creators, and entrepreneurs across the country to seize this opportunity and take their ambitions to the next level.”
He added: “The future belongs to young people who are willing to innovate, solve problems, and create value. InnovateX is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, mentorship, exposure, and resources they need to succeed in today’s highly competitive and technology-driven world.”
Yalokwu further explained that InnovateX is not just about rewarding great ideas, but also about building confidence, nurturing talent, and connecting young people to opportunities that can help them grow personally and professionally. “Whether you are developing a tech solution, building a creative brand, or working on an innovation that can improve lives, InnovateX provides a valuable platform to showcase your potential and accelerate your journey towards success,” he said.
As part of its commitment to youth empowerment, Ecobank continues to provide innovative banking solutions through the Blaze Account, a youth-focused offering that gives customers access to exclusive opportunities, a uniquely designed debit card, free monthly transfers, and participation in initiatives such as InnovateX.
Young Nigerians interested in participating are encouraged to submit their applications through www.innovatex.africa
With ₦20 million up for grabs and a unique opportunity to gain mentorship, skills, exposure, and industry recognition, InnovateX 2026 is poised to become one of Nigeria’s most impactful youth innovation and entrepreneurship programmes.