FUNAAB Graduate Michael Aladejobi Wins 2025 Salako Maven AI & Robotics Prize

Michael Aladejobi, a Computer Science graduate of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has been named the overall winner of the 2025 Salako Maven Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Prize (SMARP), triumphing over competitors from tertiary institutions nationwide.

According to Mr. Olasunkanmi Olajide, Ag. Head of FUNAAB’s Directorate of Public Relations, the award, organised by the Salako Maven Foundation in collaboration with the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Lagos Chapter, celebrates innovation, creativity, and the practical application of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in solving real-world problems.

Aladejobi’s winning project was highlighted for its originality, functionality, and scalability, effectively deploying intelligent systems to address institutional challenges. His entry surpassed submissions from other top institutions, including Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) and Anchor University, which finished as first and second runners-up, respectively.

The award ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology Tubosun Alake, as well as key leaders from the Nigeria Computer Society and the Computer Professionals of Nigeria (CPN).

Upon receiving the award, Aladejobi expressed gratitude to the Salako Maven Foundation and the NCS for nurturing young innovators and dedicated the honour to FUNAAB, acknowledging the University’s role in providing the academic foundation and skills critical to his success.