Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) emerged champions of the 2026 University Duel after defeating the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) 107-62 in the grand finale held at TenOone Studios, Lagos, on April 19, 2026.
FUTA finished as first runner-up, following an impressive run through a field of 62 universities.
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) secured third place after staging a remarkable comeback against the University of Ibadan.
Backed by MTN, the STEM-focused competition brought together undergraduates from across Nigeria to develop critical technical skills needed for the country’s digital economy.
The STEM trio utilised blistering speed and technical precision in the grand finale to secure Nigeria’s premier undergraduate innovation trophy, successfully redeeming their third-place finish from the inaugural season.
The University Duel now in its 2nd edition is a premier competition showcasing Nigeria’s talent in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
Engaging 62 universities and 186 students, it tests Applied Mathematics, Data Analysis, General Knowledge, and Verbal Reasoning, bridging theoretical excellence with the digital skills needed for national development.
The OAU team, featuring Computer Science student Adrian Lekan alongside teammates, Electrical Electronics pair Alli Abdul-Quayum and Ogungbayi Imran, emerged victorious in a fierce competition that had over 60 contenders.
Emphasising the competition’s role in Nigeria’s digital evolution, organisers noted that early investment in technical skills is vital for national development.
Moyosola Omoniyi the Campaign Management Digital Manager, MTN Nigeria said, “focusing students in STEM is both our present and future. As Nigeria gets more technologically advanced, we need our students to be equipped to lead the way.”
Olufemi Oyenuga, CEO Chams Corporation plc said,
“We have seen a display out of this world; OAU showed massive depth in STEM with an intensity that secured their victory in the final quarters.”
Despite a spirited mid-match comeback by FUTA, the Great Ife squad maintained composure during the collaborative Pickbox round to seal the outcome.
Their record-breaking 107 points effectively bridged the gap between theoretical excellence and real-world application, cementing their status as the nation’s top STEM university for 2026.
