Nigeria is at a crossroads when it comes to its environment.
From growing piles of unmanaged waste to the worrying disappearance of biodiversity, the country faces urgent challenges that can no longer be ignored.
But instead of leaving the problem to governments and large corporations alone, there’s now a platform for young innovators to take charge.
The Nigeria PachiPanda Challenge 2025 is opening its doors to creative minds and youth-led businesses with bold, practical solutions for sustainability.
What the Challenge Offers
This initiative, powered by MTN Nigeria, in partnership with WWF (through the Nigerian Conservation Foundation) and UNDP Nigeria, goes beyond just recognition.
Winners will walk away with life-changing cash prizes and the opportunity to represent Nigeria on a continental stage.
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First Prize: ₦3,000,000
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Second Prize: ₦2,000,000
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Third Prize: ₦1,500,000
The top winners won’t just keep their success at home — they’ll head to South Africa to compete in the Africa PachiPanda Finale, standing shoulder to shoulder with the best youth innovators across the continent.
Who Should Apply
The call is open to young individuals or teams of up to three members.
Youth-led small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are especially encouraged to join.
The key requirement? Your idea must directly address an environmental challenge facing Nigeria today and offer an innovative, workable solution.
Timeline and Duration
Applications are open right now. Winners will be selected and later represent Nigeria at the African grand finale in 2025.
More specific program milestones will be communicated directly to shortlisted candidates.
Tips for Applicants
If you’re planning to apply, here are some things to keep in mind:
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Be specific: Pinpoint a real environmental issue in your community and suggest a measurable solution.
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Think long-term: Show how your idea creates sustainable change rather than short-term fixes.
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Make it scalable: Judges are looking for solutions that can expand beyond a single community.
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Choose wisely: If you’re applying as a team, pick members with complementary skills such as business, tech, and sustainability.
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Visuals matter: Sketches, prototypes, or flowcharts can make your idea stand out.
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Stay original: Avoid generic concepts or recycling someone else’s ideas.
How to Apply
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Visit the official Nigeria PachiPanda Challenge 2025 application form.
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Select whether you’re applying as an individual or team (maximum three members).
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Fill in your details and complete the entry form.
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Submit your application before the deadline (date to be announced by MTN).
For questions or clarifications, you can reach out via email at sustainability.ng@mtn.com.
More Than Just a Contest
The Nigeria PachiPanda Challenge is not just another competition — it’s a movement aimed at sparking real change in how we tackle environmental problems.
For young people who are passionate about making a difference, this is the moment to step up and be part of building a greener, more sustainable Nigeria.