Obafemi Awolowo University Clinches Top Honors in MTN University Duel Smart Challenge

Students of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, have emerged winners of the 2026 University Duel and Smart Challenge competitions sponsored by MTN Nigeria, earning a total of N4m in prize money and scholarships.

While the winners of the University Duel received N3m, the Smart Challenge champions were awarded N1m.

A statement by the founder of the STEM Africa Initiative, organisers of the competitions, Oladapo Ojo, said the contests brought together students from universities across the country and were designed to promote excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education.

According to him, the participants were tested in Applied Mathematics, Data Analysis, General Knowledge and Verbal Reasoning to assess both academic excellence and practical skills required in the digital economy.

“Engaging 62 universities and 186 students, the competitions test Applied Mathematics, Data Analysis, General Knowledge and Verbal Reasoning, bridging theoretical excellence with the digital skills needed for national development,” Ojo said.

He added that the initiative was aimed at strengthening the talent pipeline needed to drive Nigeria’s digital transformation.

“This investment underscores MTN’s role in fostering a talent pipeline essential for Nigeria’s digital economy, as OAU made history by sweeping both competitions under the sponsor’s support,” he said.

Ojo further noted that the competitions were designed to encourage students to embrace STEM education and develop problem-solving skills relevant to the future of work.

Speaking during the prize presentation ceremony held on the OAU campus, the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. John Odedire, described the achievement as a landmark feat for the institution.

“What we are celebrating today is a double win. This is the first time that an institution has won both the University Duel and the Smart Challenge competitions in a sweep,” Odedire said.

He recalled that OAU finished third in the maiden edition of the University Duel competition in 2025 before returning to claim both titles in 2026.

The don said the accomplishment reflected the dedication of the students and the university’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

The organisers said the competitions continue to provide a platform for identifying and rewarding talented students while promoting STEM-driven solutions to national development challenges.