By Dayo Adekanmi

The Product Innovation Excellence Award by Art of Technology, Lagos, shines as a beacon of recognition within the realm of product innovation in Nigeria. This prestigious accolade highlights the remarkable achievements of individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, creativity, and transformative impact in the field of digital product development and management.

Much like its counterpart category award, the Award catalyzes innovation, inspiring top executives and industry leaders to embrace technology and drive meaningful change in product development. By celebrating exemplary achievements, this award encourages the adoption of innovative practices, thereby elevating standards and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the industry.

At the core of this esteemed honor lies the distinguished members of the selection committee, each renowned for their expertise and contributions to the field of product innovation. The selection committee comprises a panel of influential professionals, including:

• Dr. Adaobi Eze – Chief Technology Officer, Center for Product Innovation
• Prof. Ibrahim Lawal – Director, Institute of Advanced Product Development
• Engr. Fatima Bello – Chairperson, Product Design and Development Initiative
• Dr. Yusuf Mohammed – Director of Research and Development, Lagos Innovations Board.
• Dr. Zainab Ibrahim – Head of Product Innovation Research, Nigerian Institute of Technology and Design (NITD).

These esteemed experts play a vital role in meticulously evaluating nominees and selecting the deserving recipient of the Award.

The legacy of the Award is exemplified by visionary individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of product development. Past recipients of this esteemed accolade include individuals and their respective roles at the time of receiving the award.

• Louisa Ojo: Head of Product Management at Walng (Winner of Product Innovation Excellence Award 2021)
• Victoria Fagbohun: Director of Product Management at Access Bank PLC(Winner of Product Innovation Excellence Award 2020)
• Toyyibat Yussuph: Head of Product Management at Evolvehive (Winner of Product Innovation Excellence Award 2019)
• Emmanuel Okoli: Chief Product Officer at Infinity Tech Solutions. (Winner of Product Innovation Excellence Award 2018)
• Hossana Oyibo: Head of Product Strategy at SAFRA. (Winner of Product Innovation Excellence Award 2017)

These innovators have not only pushed the boundaries of product development but have also inspired others to strive for excellence in their respective domains.

Since its inception, the Award ceremony has evolved into a highly anticipated event, garnering widespread recognition and attracting an illustrious array of dignitaries and industry luminaries. From its inaugural year, where it was graced by the presence of notable figures such as the Minister of Science and Technology, Governor of Lagos State, Special Adviser on Innovation to the President, to subsequent editions attended by esteemed guests including the Director of the Nigerian Institute of Technology and Design (NITD), Chairman of the Africa Product Innovation Consortium, Chairman of the National Product Development Initiative (NPDI), Director of The Association of International Product Marketing & Management (AIPMM), and the Minister of Innovation in Nigeria, among others, the event has become a cornerstone of the industry calendar.

The popularity of the award ceremony has transcended mere recognition, paving the way for strategic collaborations with leading institutions such as the Africa Product Innovation Consortium. Additionally, the event has secured sponsorship from prestigious organizations including the Lagos State Government, the National Innovation Agency (NIA), the Nigerian Institute of Technology and Design (NITD) and others. These partnerships underscore the widespread industry support and validation of the award’s significance within the product development community, solidifying its reputation as a pinnacle of excellence in the field.

The Product Innovation Excellence Award by Art of Technology, Lagos, goes beyond being a mere accolade; it serves as a symbol of excellence and a catalyst for positive change in the product development industry. With a distinguished selection committee, illustrious past awardees, growing prominence, strategic partnerships, and a profound impact on inspiring innovation, this award continues to shape the future of product development in Nigeria and beyond.