The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting digital inclusion and empowering young women in technology, as winners and participants of the 2026 National Girls in ICT Competition were honoured at a special dinner hosted at the State House, Presidential Villa.
The event was attended by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, and featured Oluremi Tinubu as the Special Guest of Honour.
The Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, on Friday hosted the six regional winning teams and other participants of the 2026 National Girls in ICT Competition to a special celebratory dinner at the State House, Presidential Villa, Abuja, with the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, serving as Special Guest of Honour.
Addressing the participants, the First Lady commended the girls for their creativity, determination, and commitment to using technology to solve societal challenges.
She said: “I applaud the innovation and creativity displayed by our girls. Your solutions remind us that young people are not merely beneficiaries of change; they are key drivers of change. I say well done to you all. I also commend the launch of the Code Clubs initiative and the presentation of club kits, which will further strengthen digital learning and innovation within schools and communities.
“This is a strategic investment in the future of Nigeria and a reflection of Mr. President’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and technology leaders. To our dear girls and young innovators, my charge to you is to remain curious, confident, and courageous. Never underestimate the power of your ideas. Continue to learn, create, and use technology not only to solve problems, but also to uplift lives and strengthen your communities. Let this programme remind you that your dreams are valid, your potential is limitless, and the future of innovation can proudly bear your imprint.”
Speaking on the significance of the programme, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for young Nigerians, particularly girls, to participate in the digital economy.
“Tonight has reminded us of something very important: talent is everywhere in Nigeria and opportunity must be provided everywhere too. We have witnessed remarkable presentations from girls representing every region of our country. We have seen creativity, confidence, innovation, and problem-solving. Most importantly, we have seen what becomes possible when young people are given the opportunity to learn, imagine, and build,” he said.
According to the minister, more than 3,700 girls from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory participated in this year’s competition, with 111 emerging as national winners. He said the participants’ ideas and presentations demonstrated that talent is widespread across the country and underscored the need to ensure equal access to opportunities.
Tijani also commended the First Lady for engaging directly with the participants and listening to their ideas, noting that her presence sent a strong message that the ambitions and contributions of young women are valued at the highest levels of national leadership.
The minister emphasized that investing in girls is critical to building stronger communities, fostering a more inclusive digital economy, and securing a prosperous future for Nigeria. He added that the National Girls in ICT Competition remains one of the ministry’s flagship initiatives aimed at increasing the participation of girls and young women in technology-related fields.
He said the initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind in the country’s unique digital transformation journey while creating opportunities for young people to develop skills, innovate, and lead.
Tijani also acknowledged the role of teachers, mentors, and the project team within the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy for their contributions to the programme’s success.
He further expressed appreciation to key partners and sponsors, including the Korea International Cooperation Agency, National Information Technology Development Agency, and Nigerian Postal Service, for supporting efforts to nurture the next generation of Nigerian innovators.
The National Girls in ICT Competition is designed to encourage greater participation of girls and young women in science, technology, engineering, and digital innovation, helping to bridge gender gaps in the country’s growing technology sector.
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