Obafemi Awolowo University has made history in Nigerian higher education after its students claimed victory in both the 2026 University Duel and Smart Challenge competitions sponsored by MTN Nigeria, taking home a combined prize of N4m in cash and scholarships.

The University Duel winners received N3m while the Smart Challenge champions were awarded N1m, following an 11 week tournament that drew 186 students from 62 universities across the country.

The Dean of Student Affairs, Professor John Odedire, described the outcome as unprecedented. "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," he stated at the prize presentation ceremony held on the OAU campus.

Odedire also recalled that the institution finished third in the maiden edition of the University Duel in 2025 before returning to claim both titles in 2026, describing the turnaround as a reflection of the students' dedication and the university's commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

The competitions, organised by the STEM Africa Initiative, tested participants in Applied Mathematics, Data Analysis, General Knowledge and Verbal Reasoning, assessing both academic performance and practical skills relevant to the digital economy.

Founder of the STEM Africa Initiative, Oladapo Ojo, noted that the contests were structured to bridge theoretical learning with real world digital competencies. "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," he stated.

Ojo added that MTN Nigeria's sponsorship underscored the telecommunications company's role in building the talent pipeline required for 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 disclosed.

The organisers noted that the initiative remains committed to identifying and rewarding outstanding students while promoting STEM driven solutions to national development challenges.