By Idea Television Newsdesk
Source: OPay Press Release
Leading Nigerian fintech company OPay has officially opened applications for the 2026 edition of its flagship scholarship initiative, now rebranded as OPay Scholars — a continuation of the company’s ambitious ₦1.2 billion, 10-year pledge to advance education across Nigeria.
In what marks a significant expansion of the programme, OPay is introducing a brand-new Innovation Challenge developed in partnership with Google and OPay Futures. The move goes beyond conventional scholarship support, blending financial aid, digital skills training, and real career opportunities into a single initiative — a first of its kind in Nigeria’s corporate space.
How the Innovation Challenge Works
The Innovation Challenge is open to undergraduate students from any tertiary institution in Nigeria. Participants must form teams of five, identify a real-life problem, and pitch a technology-driven solution. As part of the entry requirement, each applicant must have downloaded the Gemini App and explored its basic features.
The prize pool is substantial — the winning team takes home ₦10 million, with the first runner-up receiving ₦5 million and the second runner-up ₦3 million.
Beyond the cash prizes, participants will gain access to webinars and bootcamps focused on practical industry skills, and top performers will be connected to career pathways through OPay Futures.
Applications are open from May 25 to June 14, 2026, and can be submitted at www.opayweb.com/innovation-challenge.
What the Leadership Is Saying
Elizabeth Wang, Chief Commercial Officer at OPay, described the expanded programme as a long-term investment in Nigeria’s youth, noting that the company aims to equip young Nigerians with tools to thrive in the digital economy — not just financial support.
Dotun Adekunle, Chief Operations and Technology Officer at OPay, pointed to the Google Gemini integration as a way to connect students with technology that can turn ideas into real solutions.
Representing Google, Olumide Balogun, Director for West and East Africa, said the most exciting innovations on the continent will come from young people tackling local challenges — and that their role is to ensure those young people have the right tools to make it happen.
Why This Matters
Since its launch, the OPay Scholarship Programme has supported hundreds of Nigerian students. With the 2026 expansion, OPay is signalling a shift from charity to empowerment — giving students not just money, but skills, mentorship, and a foot in the door of Nigeria’s growing tech industry.
If you’re a student or know one who should apply, don’t let this pass. Head to www.opayweb.com/innovation-challenge before June 14.
