The Nigerian Women in Information Technology (NIWIIT) has launched the Campus Tech Queens Initiative, a national programme aimed at preparing female students for global digital excellence and leadership in technology.
The initiative was unveiled on Wednesday at Kogi State Polytechnic in Lokoja. It is a hackathon-driven, mentorship-based programme designed 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 added that it would promote inclusion, professional development, and technological advancement for women and girls in information technology.
According to her, the initiative will unfold in six stages: campus sensitisation and registration, capacity building and mentorship, state-level hackathons, a national grand finale, and post-hackathon incubation and leadership development.
Ayodele urged female students to seize the opportunity: “The digital economy needs your voice, your creativity, and your brilliance.”
She appealed for government support, saying: “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 full support. “I don’t just offer words; I offer you a partnership,” she said. “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 Abdulrahman Mohammed, Director of Tertiary Education), reaffirmed the government’s commitment to girl-child education and empowerment.
Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Prof Sanusi Avidime, assured NIWIIT of the institution’s full 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, and pledged NCS support, noting its alignment with the society’s mission to promote digital literacy, innovation, and gender equity in computing.
Participants also shared positive feedback. Rachel Ojo of Federal University Lokoja called it “a great programme that can benefit many females by teaching valuable skills that can transform lives.”
Damilola Akere of Kogi State Polytechnic said it inspired confidence: “It encouraged us to be bold in tech. It stood out from other events, and I learned a lot.”
Both students expressed gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity.
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