Wife of the President, Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerian girls to stay confident, curious and bold as they build skills in technology and innovation.
She spoke in Abuja at a dinner for winners of the National Girls in ICT competition. The event brought together young innovators from across the country.
Tinubu said the programme shows government support for digital learning among girls. She said their ideas can help solve real-life problems in communities.
She told participants to keep learning and creating. She said their ideas matter and encouraged them to believe in their abilities.
The competition recorded more than 3,700 participants across Nigeria. About 111 emerged as regional winners, while six teams reached the final stage.
Projects presented include digital tools for farming, learning support for children with autism, and systems designed to assist people with hearing challenges.
Tinubu said the initiative aligns with government plans to expand youth empowerment and digital skills.
She also praised efforts to support innovation clubs in schools and to provide learning materials for students.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said talent exists across Nigeria and access to opportunity must match it.
He said government is expanding digital infrastructure through fibre networks, training programmes and telecom projects aimed at improving connectivity.
Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Ahmad, said the programme helps girls gain skills and confidence in technology fields.
She said girls should not only use technology but also help create it.
The final stage of the competition was won by Special Education Centre, Bauchi, with its assistive technology project.
Other finalists came from schools in Cross River, Abia, Kano, Abuja and Osun.
Winners received cash prizes, laptops and mentorship support.
Separately, Tinubu also gave support to more than 1,000 petty traders and persons with disabilities in the Federal Capital Territory.
They received equipment such as sewing machines, grinding machines, water pumps, hair dryers and tricycles. Some also received cash grants.
District leaders thanked the initiative and asked for more support for infrastructure and schools in the community.
Esther Akwu, speaking for beneficiaries with disabilities, said the support has helped many people in the community.
Deji Elumoye
