First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on young girls across the country to apply Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in solving real-life challenges and contributing to national development.
She also urged them to remain curious, confident and courageous as they pursue opportunities in the digital space.
Tinubu made the call at a dinner organised by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to honour winners of the third edition of the National Girls in ICT Competition.
According to a statement by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady said the programme had successfully built digital skills, creativity, leadership and problem-solving abilities among thousands of Nigerian girls.
She disclosed that more than 3,700 girls participated in this year’s edition across the six geopolitical zones through competitions, boot camps, mentorship sessions and innovation challenges.
“I am glad to learn that this year’s edition of the National Girls in ICT programme engaged over 3,700 girls across the six geopolitical zones of the country through competitions, boot camps, mentorship sessions, and innovation challenges,” she said.
Tinubu noted that the projects presented by the participants, including smart fish pond monitoring systems, AI-powered farm protection tools, and platforms supporting deaf patients and children with autism, demonstrate the impact of the initiative.
She commended the participants for their creativity and assured them that their ideas are valuable to Nigeria’s future development.
“I am very proud of your achievements and congratulate you all,” she said.
The First Lady added that the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which prioritises youth empowerment, digital innovation, education and economic inclusion.
She also praised the introduction of Code Clubs, describing them as a strategic investment in developing Nigeria’s next generation of tech innovators.
“Remain curious, confident, and courageous. Never underestimate your inquisitiveness, which is basically the power of your ideas,” she told the girls.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said the future of the digital economy depends on full participation from both genders, not just half of the population.
“The future digital economy cannot be built by half of Nigeria. It must be built by all of Nigeria,” he said.
Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’idu Ahmad, also described the initiative as an important investment in human capital development.
The event brought together over 3,700 participants from across the country.
