The inaugural Mustapha Abdullahi Energy Leadership Fellowship (MAELF) 2026 has concluded in Abuja, with more than ₦20 million in grants and prizes awarded to outstanding young innovators developing practical solutions to transform Nigeria’s energy sector.
The six-day fellowship, organised by the APC National Youth Wing in partnership with the DAM Foundation, brought together emerging energy professionals for leadership training, policy discussions, mentorship sessions and innovation pitch competitions aimed at equipping participants with the knowledge and skills needed to accelerate Nigeria’s energy transition.
Emmanuel Ezea, founder of OneGrid Energies, emerged as the Overall Best Fellow, receiving the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu Grant worth ₦5 million for his community-based electricity access solution.
The second-place award went to Samuel Uzodinma Muoleeh of Archpace Technologies Ltd., who received ₦3 million, while Audu Precious Adayi of Solar Switch secured ₦2 million as the third overall best fellow.
Another participant, Taiwo Oladunjoye of Beautwealt Electronics, received the Biodun Ogunleye Grant valued at ₦2 million in recognition of his innovative contribution to the sector.
The Climate Technology Solutions Team won the Best Group Pitch competition and was awarded ₦5 million for presenting an innovative clean energy solution. In addition, Ovurevu Nafisat of First Sun Solar Energy Nigeria Limited received ₦2 million after emerging as the Best Interview Applicant.
Other recognitions included Emmanuel Arikpo, who received ₦500,000 as the Best Behaved Fellow, and Samuel Imanche Gabriel, who was honoured with the Excellent Leadership Award, also accompanied by a ₦500,000 cash prize.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, APC National Youth Leader Dayo Israel described the fellowship as a strategic investment in the next generation of Nigeria’s energy leaders.
He said the initiative is designed to nurture visionary young professionals who can drive the country’s clean energy transition through innovation, leadership and a commitment to excellence.
The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria and founder of the fellowship, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, encouraged participants to apply the knowledge, skills and experience gained during the program to develop practical solutions that address Nigeria’s energy challenges.
According to him, the fellows have become ambassadors for innovation and sustainable development, with a responsibility to champion integrity, promote clean energy technologies and contribute to the nation’s long-term energy security.
Reacting to his recognition, Emmanuel Ezea said the award would inspire his team to expand its community-based electricity initiatives and improve energy access in underserved communities across Nigeria.
He added that the fellowship had strengthened participants’ leadership capacity and equipped them with the confidence to scale innovative energy projects capable of delivering lasting social and economic impact.
The fellowship concluded with the presentation of certificates, grants and awards to participants. Organisers said the programme aims to build a strong network of young innovators dedicated to advancing clean energy, technological innovation and sustainable development across Nigeria.
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