National Girls in ICT Competition 2026: Apply and win Scholarships, Laptops & Tech Prizes

National Girls in ICT Competition 2026

The Federal Government has officially opened applications for the 2026 National Girls in ICT Competition, a nationwide initiative aimed at empowering young Nigerian girls to explore innovation and leadership in technology.

The competition, organized by the Federal Ministry of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, seeks to transform Nigeria’s ICT landscape by encouraging female participation from an early age. Targeted at girls aged 10–16 in secondary schools (JS1–SS3), the program offers participants a chance to showcase their creativity, technical skills, and problem-solving abilities.

With prizes including scholarships, laptops, tablets, robotic kits, trophies, and certifications, the competition is fast becoming one of the most anticipated ICT initiatives for young girls in Nigeria. The application deadline is February 28, 2026.

What Is the National Girls in ICT Competition 2026?

The National Girls in ICT Programme is a team-based competition designed to empower young girls to develop innovative technology solutions addressing real-world challenges.

Participants are required to identify problems within three key sectors:

Agriculture
Education
Health

Teams must design tech-driven solutions that can positively impact their communities. Through structured training and mentorship, the initiative aims to build confidence, digital literacy, and leadership skills among girls in Nigeria.

By nurturing early exposure to Information and Communication Technology (ICT), the Federal Government hopes to close the gender gap in Nigeria’s rapidly growing tech sector.

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Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements Explained

To qualify for the 2026 National Girls in ICT Competition, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be female students enrolled in a secondary school in Nigeria.
Be between the ages of 10 and 16.
Form a team of 2–3 girls.
Obtain school approval and parental/guardian consent.
Submit only one entry per team.

The competition encourages collaboration, innovation, and teamwork, essential skills for future careers in STEM and digital industries.

Key Benefits: Scholarships, Laptops & National Recognition

Winners of the competition will receive:

Scholarships
Laptops and tablets
Robotic kits
Certificates and trophies
Recognition at national level

Beyond material prizes, participants gain valuable exposure to digital tools, innovation processes, and national-level recognition. The program also enhances students’ academic profiles and prepares them for future educational opportunities.

How the Competition Process Works

The competition follows a structured multi-stage process:

1. Registration

Interested teams must register through the official portal before the deadline.

2. Team Formation

Students form teams of 2–3 members with support from teachers and school administrators.

3. Problem Identification & Solution Development

Teams identify a community problem and create a technology-based solution.

4. Training Program

Participants undergo a 5-day state-level training program to strengthen their technical and innovation skills.

5. Regional Competitions

Teams compete at regional levels to qualify for the national stage.

6. Virtual Pitching

Finalists present their solutions to qualified judges during a virtual pitching session.

7. Awards & Recognition

Winners receive scholarships, laptops, and certificates at the national level.

Why the 2026 Girls in ICT Competition Matters

Nigeria’s digital economy continues to expand, yet female representation in ICT remains disproportionately low. Programs like the National Girls in ICT Competition play a vital role in:

Increasing female participation in STEM fields
Encouraging innovation at a young age
Building future tech leaders
Creating inclusive digital growth

By investing in girls aged 10–16, the initiative ensures early exposure to digital skills that are essential in today’s economy.

With the deadline fast approaching on February 28, 2026, schools and parents are encouraged to support eligible students in submitting their applications promptly.

FAQ – 2026 National Girls in ICT Competition

1. What is the 2026 National Girls in ICT Competition?

It is a nationwide competition organized by Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to empower secondary school girls in ICT.

2. Who can apply for the Girls in ICT Competition 2026?

Female secondary school students in Nigeria aged 10–16 (JS1–SS3) can apply in teams of 2–3.

3. What are the prizes for the competition?

Winners receive scholarships, laptops, tablets, robotic kits, trophies, and certificates.

4. What is the deadline for application?

The deadline to apply is February 28, 2026.

5. Do participants need IELTS?

No. There is no IELTS requirement.

6. Is the competition team-based?

Yes. Participants must apply in teams of 2–3 girls with school and parental approval.

7. What areas should projects focus on?

Projects must address challenges in Agriculture, Education, or Health using technology solutions.

8. Is there training provided?

Yes. Participants will attend a 5-day defense training program before regional competitions.