From Ajegunle in Lagos to Nsidung in Calabar, marine litter is transforming vibrant Nigerian coastal communities into environmental hotspots, and the solutions need to come from within. The PROTEGO Blue Innovation Challenge invites Nigerian university students to move beyond theory and design real, place-based responses to the marine litter crisis.
Developed under the PROTEGO Project - implemented by WASTE Africa, the Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre, and adelphi, with support from the German government - this hackathon is your opportunity to turn a bold idea into a funded pilot. The five best teams walk away with a grant and national recognition.
Apply now and join the fight against marine litter!
Who Can Apply
The challenge is open to currently enrolled undergraduate students at recognized universities in Lagos State and Cross River State. You can apply as an individual or as a team.
No prior hackathon experience is needed. Tech, process-based, and community-driven ideas are all welcome.
What You Can Win
The top five teams receive a grant of USD 500-1,500 to pilot their idea, a fully funded trip to one of Nigeria's coastal hotspot sites, and national visibility through the PROTEGO platform and partner network. Finalists also pitch directly to environmental experts and potential investors, and receive a co-signed letter of recognition from the project consortium.
How To Apply
Applications are submitted through the registration link and cover your academic background, your proposed solution, and a scalability plan. Supporting materials are welcome.
The application deadline is 15 August 2026, 23h59 (WAT).
Ready to dive in? The full PROTEGO Blue Innovation Hackathon Nigeria brief is available for download on this page. It covers everything you need to know, from eligibility and judging criteria to the step-by-step registration process.
We are looking forward to read your ideas!