Group Awards Over N14m To Young Innovators

The ThinkLab Group has concluded its inaugural Thinkaton by  awarding more than N14 million  to young Nigerian tech innovators.

The event highlighted the significant potential of youth-led digital solutions in key national sectors organised under the Group’s ThinkPreneur initiative.

The hackathon focused on five critical areas: Aviation, Learning Management, Fintech, Artificial Intelligence in Construction, and Audit & Finance.

At  the award, the group’s chairman and chief executive officer, Dr Sa’id Alkali Kori, lauded  the participants for their innovative drive and technical skill.

Kori said,  “What we have witnessed here is a clear indication that with the right platform, our youth can develop practical, scalable solutions that speak directly to Nigeria’s developmental needs.”

The event was also addressed by the group head of ICT and Programme, Mr Mohammad Kois Ismaila, who played a pivotal role in overseeing the technical execution of the hackathon.

In his remarks, Mr. Ismaila praised the dedication of the teams and the support of his ICT unit. “This was not just a competition, but a collaborative endeavour. Our in-house ICT team worked alongside these bright minds, providing mentorship and ensuring a conducive environment for innovation. The results speak to what is possible when talent meets opportunity and support,” he added.

The winning teams are First Place (₦5,000,000): Team 404 Found – for an AI-powered fintech platform featuring offline functionality and voice-assisted banking for the visually impaired.

The Second Place (₦4,000,000): Team Tech Z – for developing an AI-driven audit and procurement platform aimed at enhancing organisational transparency and the third Place (₦3,000,000): Team Hooli – for creating a WhatsApp-integrated flight booking system designed to improve access to air travel.