By 
Teen Fest 2024
By Nana Theresa Timothy and Osasome, C.O
At the recently concluded Nigeria Teen Cyber Festival (ngTeenCyberFest) 2024, tech and development experts emphasized the urgent need to create an enabling environment for young Nigerians to lead technological innovation. Held at OLUMAWU School in Wuse II, Abuja, the event, themed “From Ideas to Impact: Fostering Innovation in the Age of AI”, gathered key stakeholders to discuss youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation. The event was organised by Child Protection Initiative Against Cyber Crime (C-C Pro).
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The experts agreed that early exposure to digital skills is essential for building teamwork, reducing unemployment, and driving technological advancements that can spur economic growth. Haruna Sani Sani, Director General of the Nasarawa State Information Technology and Digital Economy Agency (NASITDEA), highlighted the potential of the Internet for creating solutions rooted in Nigerian culture and values.
Nigeria’s Youth at the Forefront of Digital Innovation
Engr. Morenikeji Ayodele Aniye, CEO of Hotspot Network Limited, and Engr. Ikechukwu Nnamani, CEO of Digital Realty, both echoed the sentiment that young Nigerians have a natural inclination for online exploration and innovation. With 60% of Nigeria’s 220 million people under the age of 35, they emphasized that investing in the digital talents of the youth is critical for the nation’s future.
Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Gabriel K. Dewan, and Eng. Funmi Jemisenia, Assistant Director at the FCT Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation, underscored the importance of nurturing a digital-savvy generation, emphasizing the need for responsible and progressive use of the Internet.
Power of Collaboration and Innovation
During the event, MME Chinwe Okoli, Senior Adviser to the Governor of Anambra State on Innovation, urged students to embrace digital innovation and collaborate with like-minded peers for greater impact. Similarly, Dr. Chuks Ekueme, Chairman of UNICCON Group, emphasized that impactful innovation starts with ideas, while Olawale Owoeye, CEO of Cedarview Communications Limited, encouraged young minds to harness their creativity to address Nigeria’s challenges.
Addressing Cyber Risks and Online Safety
Despite the potential of the digital world, experts also pointed out the dangers of the Internet, such as cyberbullying and inappropriate content. According to Ola Olukoyede, Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the same skills used in online crimes can be redirected toward solving developmental challenges. Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), warned students about the risks of unauthorized access to sensitive information. Mr. Daser David, President/CEO, Digital Bridge Institute, advocated for comprehensive strategies, including legislative amendments, improved online safety measures.
NITDA, NIGCOMSAT: Championing Internet Safety and Innovation
NIGCOMSAT’s CEO, Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, emphasised the importance of harnessing the internet’s creative potential among young people. Represented by Aishatu Bantam, NIGCOMSAT’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Egerton-Idehen highlighted the need to focus on innovation and digital growth.
Meanwhile, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General/CEO of NITDA, reiterated the agency’s commitment to promoting safe internet use among youth. Through strategic partnerships, NITDA has invested heavily in creating a conducive digital environment for young Nigerians to thrive, said Abdullahi. He was represented by Engr. Yau Isa Garba, of National Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), a subsidiary of the NITDA.
Hackathon Highlights Innovative Solutions
The festival featured a hackathon involving students from schools across Abuja, including Government Science and Technology College (GSTC) Garki and GSTC Kwali. Team D (Techlords) emerged as winners for their innovative app designed to help children acquire job skills through career guidance based on their interests.
Fireside Chat: Navigating Opportunities and Challenges in Cyberspace
The event also included a fireside chat, where students like Abdul Dimka Abdullahi and Aklo E. Sabo discussed both the opportunities and risks of the digital world. Panelists shared personal stories of cyberbullying, offering valuable lessons on maintaining a safe and responsible digital presence. Participants from Child Love and Protection Advocacy Initiative (CLAPAI), shared their personal experiences of cyber bullying and its emotional impact.
Awards and Recognition
The awards segment of ngTeenCyberFest 2024 celebrated outstanding young innovators and hackathon winners, recognizing their contributions to Nigeria’s digital landscape. The event reinforced the importance of fostering cybersecurity skills and innovative thinking among the youth.
Conclusion: Shaping Future Digital Leaders
“The festival serves as a stepping stone for the next generation of digital leaders, equipping them with the tools to thrive in the cyber world while ensuring their safety and responsible participation,” said Delmwa Gogwim, CEO of C-CPro, the event organizer.
The ngTeenCyberFest 2024 provided a platform for students to develop problem-solving skills and foster an understanding of cybersecurity, setting the stage for a brighter, more innovative future for Nigeria.
