Premiere Academy, Abuja has emerged as the overall winner of the 2026 Battle of the Energy Titans competition, outperforming 11 other finalists in a contest aimed at addressing Nigeria's energy poverty. The competition was organized by the NNPC Foundation in collaboration with the Oloibiri Oil and Gas Entrepreneurship Development Initiative (OLOGED) and served as the flagship event of the annual Youth Energy STEAM Festival, YES-Fest 2026.
Theme and Participation
Themed 'Young Innovators Solving Energy Poverty', this year's edition of YES-Fest focused on equipping students with practical skills to design energy solutions for their communities. Out of 45 schools that entered from the Federal Capital Territory and beyond, only 12 advanced to the finals. Premiere Academy distinguished itself through exceptional creativity, teamwork, and technical competence, earning the Overall Best Award.
Prize and Recognition
For their victory, the school received a ₦500,000 cash prize, the Overall Best School Trophy, and a package of educational books and learning materials. This year's event also featured the unveiling of the 'Energy on Wheels Project for Schools', a mobile initiative designed to bring energy education directly to classrooms across Nigeria.
Principal's Remarks
Speaking after the award, Premiere Academy Principal, Mr Chris Akinsowon, said: 'This feat further cements Premiere Academy's reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and holistic education. Our students' performance reflects the quality of instruction and mentorship by our dedicated staff and the strong support of our parents. We thank the board for creating platforms where students can excel beyond the classroom as this is further proof of our vision to raise confident, innovative, globally competitive leaders.'
NNPC Foundation's Perspective
NNPC Foundation Managing Director, Mrs Emmanuella Arukwe, praised the level of innovation: 'Participants presented solutions ranging from solar-powered devices and clean cooking technologies to mini-grid concepts and waste-to-energy systems. Battle of the Energy Titans is not just a contest. It is raising a new generation of 'energypreneurs' with the literacy, skills, and confidence to lead Africa's energy future.'
OLOGED Initiative's View
OLOGED Initiative Executive Director, Onome Wilkinson, noted that YES-Fest's STEAM approach ensures both science and arts students contribute ideas to the energy sector. 'The initiative helps students understand energy's role in powering homes and economies while challenging them to solve real access problems,' she said.
Guests and Impact
Top guests at the grand finale included the Chairman of the FCT Universal Basic Education Board, Lady Florence Wenegieme; the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Youth Engagement, represented by his Technical Assistant, Mr Bolaji Wellington; principals of participating schools; and education stakeholders. Premiere Academy's victory reinforces its position as a leading institution shaping future-ready, problem-solving leaders for Nigeria and beyond.
