Ecobank Nigeria has successfully hosted the grand finale of the InnovateX Hackathon, its flagship innovation challenge powered by Blaze by Ecobank in partnership with Heave Ventures and Verve. The event, held in Lagos, brought together some of Nigeria's brightest undergraduate innovators. Team Vhorde emerged as the overall winner, while E-Nation and Konvoy took the first and second runner-up positions, respectively. All 20 finalist teams received cash prizes in recognition of their innovation and outstanding performance.
The InnovateX Hackathon attracted 168 teams comprising 672 students from 90 universities across Nigeria. Following a highly competitive selection process, 20 finalist teams advanced to the final stage, where they pitched innovative solutions addressing challenges across multiple sectors. The teams were drawn from Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja. Ecobank distributed N22 million in prize money to the finalists, with Team Vhorde receiving N5 million, the first runner-up N4 million, and the second runner-up N3.5 million.
Kola Adeleke, Executive Director, Commercial and Consumer Banking, Ecobank Nigeria, emphasized that the InnovateX Hackathon was established to provide a platform for young Nigerians to transform ideas into practical solutions capable of addressing real-world challenges. The initiative aims to nurture ideas, develop entrepreneurial capabilities, and connect promising innovators with resources, mentorship, and networks.
Adeleke highlighted Ecobank's commitment to developing the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. The bank recognizes that young people are not merely the leaders of tomorrow but are innovators, entrepreneurs, and contributors to economic growth today. Ecobank believes that digital transformation and innovation are essential to expanding opportunities, improving access to financial services, and creating sustainable economic value.
Victor Yalokwu, Head, Products and Analytics, Ecobank Nigeria, described InnovateX as an extension of Blaze by Ecobank's commitment to empowering young Nigerians. The InnovateX Hackathon is driven by Blaze, a dedicated youth proposition that serves as a vehicle for young people to express their talents, ideas, and abilities to drive economic growth.
Yalokwu highlighted other youth-focused initiatives under Blaze, including the Campus Ambassadors Programme, which provides students with stipends and opportunities to develop leadership and entrepreneurial skills. He noted that all 20 finalist teams were rewarded for their creativity, resilience, and innovation, with Ecobank committing N22 million in prize money to support the participants and encourage the growth of their ideas.
Henry Uti of Team Vhorde expressed appreciation to Ecobank and its partners for creating the opportunity. Winning the InnovateX Hackathon is both an honour and a huge motivation for the team. The platform has shown that young Nigerians have the creativity and capacity to build solutions that can transform industries and improve lives.
Key points
- Ecobank Nigeria awards N22 million to 20 finalist teams at the InnovateX Hackathon.
- Team Vhorde wins the top prize of N5 million.
- The InnovateX Hackathon aims to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation among young Nigerians.
