By Blessing Emmanuel, Abuja
In a strategic move to foster the growth of the digital economy and empower the next generation of innovators, the Nigerian Federal government has unveiled the Young Innovative Builders (YIB) program.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr BosunTijani made this announcement via his LinkedIn handle.
The Minister noted that emphasising the crucial role of initiatives like Industrial Training programs, officials are keen on shaping the competence of young Nigerians and providing them with practical experience in applying their knowledge.
“During previous Industrial Training programs, numerous promising and innovative technical projects aligned with the country’s objectives to advance its digital economy. Recognizing the potential of these initiatives, the government is taking a step further by launching the YIB program, aimed specifically at tertiary students,” he explained.
The YIB program invites students to apply for a chance to win one of the 3,256 devices being offered — comprising 48 laptops and 40 tablets allocated per state of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These devices, sourced from an existing allocation by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), are intended to support learning and the practical application of technology among learners in tertiary institutions.
The official website for application submissions is [yib.fmcide.gov.ng], and successful applicants stand a chance to receive a laptop or tablet as they further develop their innovative projects. This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to nurturing young talent and harnessing their potential to drive technological advancements in Nigeria.
The program not only serves as an encouragement for young innovators but also underscores the government’s dedication to building a sustainable future for the digital economy. The allocation of these devices is seen as a proactive measure to equip students with the necessary tools to excel in technology-related fields, contributing to the overall growth and excellence of the nation. #NigerianExcellence
For those eager to participate, the application portal is now open at [yib.fmcide.gov.ng]. This initiative marks a significant stride toward creating a robust ecosystem that supports and nurtures the innovative spirit of Nigeria’s youth, paving the way for a brighter and technologically advanced future.