NCC Hails Tijani’s Girls-in-ICT Drive as 185 Students Explore Nigeria’s Telecom History
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has applauded the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, for driving initiatives that are opening up technology opportunities for Nigerian girls and strengthening digital inclusion across the country.
The commendation came as the Commission hosted 185 contestants in the 2026 National Girls-in-ICT (NG-ICT) Competition on an educational tour of the National Communications Museum in Abuja.
The students, drawn from the six geopolitical zones, are participating in the Ministry’s flagship programme designed to inspire greater female participation in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and other Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
Speaking during the visit, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, described the initiative as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s digital future, noting that it aligns with the Commission’s commitment to promoting digital literacy and nurturing the next generation of innovators.
Represented by the Director of Research and Development, Babagana Digima, Maida said exposing young girls to the history and evolution of telecommunications would help deepen their understanding of technology and spark their interest in shaping the future of the sector.
“The whole idea is to excite the curiosity of the younger generation. When they see how communication has evolved—from postal services and telegraphy to today’s digital ecosystem—they can begin to imagine and create what comes next,” he said.
The museum tour formed part of activities under the National Girls in ICT Programme, a ministerial initiative aimed at bridging the gender gap in technology through digital skills development, mentorship and exposure to innovation.
During the excursion, the students were taken through Nigeria’s telecommunications journey, from the establishment of early communication facilities in the colonial era to the digital transformation that followed market liberalisation.
They also explored rare historical artefacts, including 19th-century postal equipment, telegraph systems, telegram machines, teleprinters and early telephone technologies preserved at the museum.
The NCC said understanding the sector’s rich history is critical to inspiring a new generation of digital leaders capable of driving innovation and contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
The National Girls in ICT Competition is one of several initiatives championed by the Ministry to expand access to technology and encourage more girls to pursue careers in the digital and innovation ecosystem.
