By: Kemi Akinseye
Flour Mills of Nigeria has concluded the fifth edition of its FMN Prize for Innovation (PFI), with a female entrepreneur emerging as the winner for the first time in the competition’s five-year history.
According to a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Monday, at the grand finale held on May 15, 2026, Victoria Ogwanighie, founder of Kiyoko Foods Ltd, clinched the top prize after competing against four other finalists selected from over 2,700 entries received for the competition.
Her innovation, Sorghum Cheese Balls, converts cassava into nutrient-rich cheese balls aimed at improving child nutrition, reducing post-harvest losses, and supporting sustainable food systems.
As part of the competition, the Chairman of FMN, John Coumantaros, announced a significant increase in prize money for the top finalists.
The winner’s prize was increased from ₦5 million to ₦10 million, while the first and second runners-up received ₦6 million and ₦4 million respectively.
Speaking during the event, Coumantaros said, “The FMN Prize for Innovation reflects the core of our commitment to fostering sustainable solutions within Nigeria’s food and agro-allied sector. We are proud to support entrepreneurs whose innovations have the potential to transform the cassava value chain and create lasting economic impact.”
Ogwanighie, who received ₦10 million alongside mentorship and brand promotion support from FMN, said the recognition would help expand the impact of her business.
The winner’s prize was increased from ₦5 million to ₦10 million, while the first and second runners-up received ₦6 million and ₦4 million respectively.
Speaking during the event, Coumantaros said, “The FMN Prize for Innovation reflects the core of our commitment to fostering sustainable solutions within Nigeria’s food and agro-allied sector. We are proud to support entrepreneurs whose innovations have the potential to transform the cassava value chain and create lasting economic impact.”
Ogwanighie, who received ₦10 million alongside mentorship and brand promotion support from FMN, said the recognition would help expand the impact of her business.
