The push to get more young Nigerians, especially girls, into technology careers is gaining renewed attention as government agencies continue to roll out empowerment programmes.
Across the country, concerns have persisted about the gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields, with stakeholders calling for more exposure and mentorship for school-aged girls.
That effort was on display in Abuja as the Nigerian Communications Commission received a group of students on an educational excursion.
The Nigerian Communications Commission has commended the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, for initiatives aimed at empowering girls in Information and Communication Technology, while hosting 185 students on a guided tour of its National Communications Museum in Abuja.
The students, drawn from the 2026 National Girls in ICT Competition, were taken through exhibits that trace the evolution of telecommunications in Nigeria, from early postal systems to modern digital infrastructure.
Officials of the commission said the tour was designed to inspire interest in technology careers and help participants understand how the sector has developed over time.
“The essence is to expose young people to how communication systems have evolved and to spark curiosity about the future of innovation,” an NCC official said.
During the visit, the students explored historical artefacts and communication equipment that reflect key stages in Nigeria’s telecom journey, including early telegraph systems and analogue infrastructure.
The NCC said the initiative aligns with broader national goals of improving digital literacy and encouraging more young women to pursue careers in STEM-related fields.
The Minister’s initiative, which brought together participants from different parts of the country, is part of ongoing efforts to bridge the gender gap in technology participation and create more access to digital skills training.
“We are committed to building a generation of young innovators who can compete globally,” another official noted.
The excursion also highlighted how Nigeria’s telecommunications sector has transformed over the decades, with officials pointing out milestones such as the expansion from a few thousand telephone lines at independence to today’s digital ecosystem.
Students were guided through the museum’s displays, which include historical communication tools, postal systems, and early network equipment used in the country’s telecom development.
Beyond the historical lessons, the commission said the programme is meant to connect education with real-world exposure, helping students see practical pathways into technology-related careers.
The 185 participants were selected from across the country as part of the national competition designed to promote ICT awareness among young girls.
Officials believe that early exposure to technology environments can influence career choices and increase participation in the digital economy over time.
The NCC also reiterated its commitment to supporting government efforts aimed at expanding digital inclusion and strengthening Nigeria’s future tech workforce.
As the tour ended, the focus returned to the bigger goal behind the initiative: closing the gender gap in technology and preparing more young Nigerians to take part in the country’s digital future.
Whether those experiences translate into long-term career interest will depend on how consistently such exposure programmes are sustained across schools and regions.
