Innovation took center stage at the Enugu Hackathon 2025 as Team Growdex from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) clinched the top prize, redefining how digital advertising can be managed through artificial intelligence.
Growdex, an AI-powered ad automation tool, allows users to unify all advertising platforms in one smart dashboard, track performance, optimize budgets, create ad sets, and distribute campaigns with a single click — simplifying what was once a complex process for creators and businesses.
The team’s groundbreaking innovation aligns with the vision of His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, to make Enugu a regional hub for digital creativity, innovation, and smart enterprise.
Speaking after their victory, Team Lead Emmanuel Chum-Onwoku expressed excitement about the recognition and the platform the Enugu Hackathon provides for emerging innovators.
“We built an AI ad automation tool that unifies all ad management platforms into one dashboard. It helps users track performance, optimize budgets, create ad sets, and distribute them with just a single click,” he explained.
“We came in first place, and I’m really excited. It shows that what we are building resonates with a lot of people. It’s also exciting to see what the Enugu Campus Hackathon is doing — showcasing the vibrant tech ecosystem in Enugu and the brilliant young minds driving it.”
Chum-Onwoku added that the win was more than a personal milestone — it was proof that “world-class innovation is being built right here in Enugu.”
“I’m happy to be part of this innovation and thrilled to have won. It proves that people love what we’re creating, and that serves as a huge motivation for us to keep building and pushing forward.”
He also extended appreciation to the organizers and partners of the event for creating an enabling environment for innovation.
“Finally, I want to say a very big thank you to everyone who made this hackathon possible — the Enugu SME Agency, all the partners, and the Enugu State Government. Thank you so much for your support.”
The Enugu Hackathon 2025 continues to spotlight the state’s growing tech ecosystem, providing a platform for young innovators to transform creative ideas into scalable solutions that can compete globally.
Watch the video below:
