The Nigerian Women in Information Technology (NIWIIT) has launched the Campus Tech Queens Initiative, a national programme to prepare female students for global digital excellence and leadership.
The initiative was unveiled on Wednesday at Kogi State Polytechnic in Lokoja.
It is a hackathon-driven, mentorship-based scheme to identify, train, mentor and showcase female tech talents across Nigerian campuses.
NIWIIT President, Dr Oluwakemi Ayodele, said the programme would help bridge the gender gap in the technology ecosystem.
She said it would promote inclusion, professional development and technological advancement for women and girls in information technology.
According to her, the initiative will run through six stages, beginning with campus sensitisation, registration, capacity building and mentorship.
“The state-level hackathon, national grand finale and post-hackathon incubation and leadership development will follow,” she said.
Ayodele urged female students to seize the opportunity, saying: “The digital economy needs your voice, your creativity and your brilliance.”
She appealed for government backing, adding: “Let’s work together to develop local solutions and drive innovation.
“We urge governments to partner with us and build a stronger, tech-advanced Nigeria.”
The Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Helen Aderibigbe, pledged her ministry’s support for the initiative.
Aderibigbe said: “I don’t just offer words; I offer you a partnership.
“My ministry is committed to supporting this initiative, expanding broadband access and advancing technology for our youth and the state.”
She encouraged female students to explore their potential and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s tech growth.
The Commissioner for Education, Mr Wemi Jones, represented by Alhaji Abdulrahman Mohammed, director of tertiary education, reaffirmed government’s commitment to girl-child education and empowerment.
Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Prof Sanusi Avidime, assured the association of the institution’s support.
Chairman of the Nigeria Computer Society, Kogi chapter, Mr Godwin Sani, described the initiative as “timely, strategic and visionary”.
He said it would provide structured pathways for female students to grow, compete, collaborate and lead in technology.
Sani pledged the society’s support, noting it aligned with its mission to promote digital literacy, innovation and close gender gaps in computing.
Participants, including Rachel Ojo of Federal University Lokoja, described the programme as impactful.
“It’s a great programme that can benefit many females, teaching valuable skills that can transform lives,” Ojo said.
Damilola Akere of Kogi State Polytechnic said the initiative inspired confidence.
“It encouraged us to be bold in tech. It stood out from other events, and I learned a lot,” she said.
Both students expressed gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity.
