The Federal Government has granted a total of 2.5 billion in grants to 45 exceptional student-led ventures at the 2026 Student Equity Capital Grant (S-VCG) Bootcamp and Awards held at the UNDP Innovation Hub in Lagos. The winners emerged after a competitive selection process involving 65 finalists drawn from institutions across the country.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, stated the effort reflects the government’s commitment to transforming tertiary organizations into centres of development, entrepreneurship, and practical problem-solving. He noted that the program aligns with the Restored Hope Program of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Alausa revealed that each of the chosen ventures might access as much as 50 million in equity-free funding, in addition to mentorship, incubation support, and access to digital tools. According to him, the program brought in over 30,000 applications from 404 institutions across the country, highlighting Nigeria’s growing innovation capability.
Likewise speaking, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, worried the vital function of digital development in driving economic growth and empowering young business owners in the country.
In her remarks, Suwaiba Said Ahmad applauded the strength, imagination, and decision shown by the finalists throughout the strenuous selection procedure.
Other stakeholders, including Muntari Dandutse and Elsie Attafuah, required continual financial investment in youth-driven development, noting that such initiatives are crucial for nationwide development and job creation.
The Federal Ministry of Education reaffirmed its dedication to supporting student business owners and building a strong pipeline of innovators capable of driving Nigeria’s long-lasting financial development.