The Nigeria Computer Society, Lagos State chapter, in partnership with the Salako Maven Foundation, has announced the Fifth Salako Maven Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics Prize (SMARP) programme.

The Director-General of the foundation, Tunde Ogunremi, made the disclosure during an interview on Tuesday in Lagos.

Mr Ogunremi said that the programme was aimed at boosting youth-driven innovations and job creation in Nigeria.

He said that the programme was designed to identify and support emerging entrepreneurs with strong interest in AI and robotics.

The director-general said that the initiative would contribute to expansion of Nigeria’s pool of technology-driven entrepreneurs, while creating employment opportunities for youths.

According to him, the competition, which is open to individuals from schools and tech-hubs with ongoing AI and robotics projects, provides a pathway for participants to transform their ideas into market-ready solutions.

“Nigeria cannot afford to lag behind in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. This initiative is about empowering young people to become job creators by supporting them to develop solutions that can be commercialised,” he said.

Mr Ogunremi added that the competition would offer participants opportunities to scale their innovations.

He said that winners would receive plaques and cash prizes, while shortlisted participants invited to present their projects physically.

He further added that mentorship support would be provided after the competition to guide participants in refining their ideas and business models.

Mr Ogunremi urged interested innovators to submit a detailed documentation of their projects.

He said that shortlisted candidates would  be contacted for further engagements, including in-person presentations.

The director-general urged innovators across the country to leverage on the platform to showcase their ideas, gain exposure and contribute to Nigeria’s growing digital economy. 

(NAN)