Energy fellowship awards N20m grants to youth innovators

The inaugural Mustapha Abdullahi Energy Leadership Fellowship 2026 has concluded in Abuja, with more than N20m in grants and prizes awarded to young innovators developing energy solutions.

The six-day programme, organised by the APC National Youth Wing in collaboration with the DAM Foundation, featured leadership training, policy engagement, mentorship and innovation pitch sessions, according to a statement on Sunday.

Emmanuel Ezea of OneGrid Energies emerged as the Overall Best Fellow, winning the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu Grant of N5m for his community-based electricity solution.

Other award recipients included Samuel Uzodinma Muoleeh of Archpace Technologies Ltd, who won N3m as the second overall best fellow; Audu Precious Adayi of Solar Switch, who received N2m as the third overall best fellow; Taiwo Oladunjoye of Beautwealt Electronics, who received the Biodun Ogunleye Grant of N2m.

Others include the Climate Technology Solutions Team, which won N5m for the Best Group Pitch; Ovurevu Nafisat of First Sun Solar Energy Nig. Ltd., who received N2m as the Best Interview Applicant; Emmanuel Arikpo, who won N500,000 as Best Behaved Fellow; and Samuel Imanche Gabriel, who received the Excellent Leadership Award of N500,000.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, described the fellowship as an investment in the country’s future.

“MAELF is more than a fellowship; it is a movement to raise visionary leaders who will drive Nigeria’s energy transition through innovation, excellence, and purposeful leadership. Today’s graduates represent the future of our nation’s energy sector.”

The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria and founder of MAELF, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, urged the fellows to apply the knowledge gained during the programme.

“You are no longer just Fellows; you are ambassadors of innovation and hope. Let this fellowship inspire you to create solutions, serve with integrity, and lead Nigeria’s energy transformation.”

Responding after receiving the top prize, Emmanuel Chinecherem Ezea said the recognition would encourage further work on scalable energy solutions.

“This recognition strengthens our resolve to build scalable energy solutions that improve lives. MAELF has empowered us to think bigger, lead boldly, and deliver lasting impact in communities across Nigeria.”

The fellowship ended with the presentation of certificates and grants to participants. According to the organisers, the programme is intended to support a network of young professionals working on innovation, clean energy and sustainable national development.