FG pushes digital inclusion drive as 3,700 girls showcase innovation

By Progress Godfrey

ABUJA – Dr Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, led a push for deeper digital inclusion on Friday by hosting the participants of the 2026 National Girls in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Competition at a celebratory dinner held at the State House, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The dinner marked the climax of the fourth edition of the National Girls in ICT Competition, an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy that engaged more than 3,700 girls across the six geopolitical zones. For the first time, the programme included a special reception honouring the regional winners after the national finale earlier that day.

A statement released by the Ministry on Saturday noted that Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, praised the participants for their creativity and determination in applying technology to address societal challenges.

She said the competition reflects a growing recognition of young people as drivers of innovation and national development.

“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,” she added.

The national grand finale was held earlier at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Head Office Annex in Abuja, where six regional teams presented solutions before a panel of judges drawn from government, industry and academia. The projects addressed key sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture, accessibility and public service delivery.

Hands that Speak from Bauchi State emerged overall winner with SignCare, a digital health platform designed to improve communication between deaf patients and healthcare providers, while other teams secured the remaining positions.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Managing Director of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), Jane Egerton‑Idehen, and the Postmaster General of Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), Tola Odeyemi. They applauded the participants and encouraged them to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), noting the importance of innovation in national growth.

Speaking further, Dr Tijani stressed the need to expand access to opportunities for young Nigerians, particularly girls, within the digital economy. He said the competition highlights the depth of talent across the country and the importance of inclusive development.

“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,” the minister said.

He added that empowering girls in technology remains critical to building a globally competitive digital economy, while acknowledging the support of partners including Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

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