When the list of top innovations at the NextGen Innovation Challenge 2025 was announced, one name quietly stood out for Osun State. Babatunde Adebayo, an indigene of Iwo, had led his company, Eco Circular Solutions Provider Ltd, into the global spotlight, emerging among the top 10 innovations worldwide.
The recognition came from the NextGen Innovation Challenge, an initiative organised by the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) in partnership with UKALD, London. The challenge celebrates ideas that solve real problems, especially in areas critical to Africa’s development.
Out of more than 1,000 submissions from across the world, Adebayo’s project stood out for its focus on environmental sustainability and circular economy solutions.
For this achievement, Eco Circular Solutions Provider Ltd received an Award of Excellence, a recognition that goes beyond a trophy. The win has opened doors to international collaborations, including partnerships with Teesside University in the United Kingdom and Amanda Franket-Haber Innovation Africa in Tel Aviv, Israel. These partnerships place an Iwo-born innovation within global research and development networks.
Speaking after the announcement, Adebayo described the moment as deeply personal. He expressed gratitude to God and spoke with pride about representing Osun State on a global platform. According to him, the award is not just a personal milestone but a signal of what is possible for young innovators from the state.
He also acknowledged the role of NBTI and UKALD, noting that their support has helped position Osun State for greater participation in global innovation opportunities. For Adebayo, the win represents a new chapter, not just for his company, but for the wider innovation ecosystem in the state.
Beyond the individual success, the achievement places Iwo once again on the global map, this time as a source of forward-thinking, solution-driven innovation. It reinforces a growing narrative that meaningful ideas addressing global challenges can emerge from anywhere, including local communities in Osun State.
Babatunde Adebayo’s journey is another reminder that Nigeria’s contribution to global innovation is not limited to headlines from major cities. Sometimes, it begins quietly, grows steadily, and eventually earns its place on the world stage.
