By Seyi Odewale
Cross River State has recorded another major milestone in education and digital innovation as students of Federal Government Girls’ College (FGGC), Cross River, secured second position at the Third National Girls in ICT Competition 2026 held in Abuja.
The competition, organised by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, featured over 3,700 participants from across Nigeria and showcased innovative technological solutions developed by young female students.
At the end of the contest held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, Special Education Centre, Bauchi, emerged overall winner, while FGGC Cross River finished as first runner-up ahead of Resonance Science School, Abia State, which placed third.
Reacting to the development, Governor Bassey Otu described the achievement as a strong validation of his administration’s investment in education, youth empowerment and digital innovation.
“This outstanding performance by the students of FGGC Cross River is a proud moment for our state. It once again proves that Cross River is blessed with brilliant young minds capable of competing favourably at the highest level anywhere in Nigeria,” the governor stated.
Otu said emerging among the top three nationwide in a highly competitive contest involving thousands of participants reflected the students’ discipline, creativity, resilience and quality mentorship.
“To emerge among the top winners in a national competition of this magnitude is no small feat. These young girls have become worthy ambassadors of Cross River State and shining examples of excellence and determination,” he added.
The governor noted that the competition’s emphasis on digital innovation, problem-solving and emerging technologies aligns with his administration’s commitment to equipping young people with future-ready skills.
According to him, the future belongs to societies that invest in technology, innovation and human capital development, stressing that Cross River remains committed to nurturing young innovators capable of creating solutions to local and global challenges.
Governor Otu also applauded the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her inspiring remarks at the event, where she urged the participants to remain “curious, confident and courageous” in pursuing careers in science, technology and innovation.
He described the message as timely and motivational, saying innovation begins with curiosity and bold thinking.
The governor equally commended the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, for expanding digital opportunities for young Nigerians through strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s digital economy.
He said the outstanding performance of FGGC Cross River further demonstrated that talent exists across every part of Nigeria when young people are provided with the right opportunities and enabling environment.
Otu also welcomed ongoing federal initiatives including Project BRIDGE, the Three Million Technical Talent Programme and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, describing them as transformative interventions capable of unlocking opportunities for millions of Nigerian youths.
He assured that his administration would continue prioritising education, digital innovation and youth empowerment as key pillars of sustainable development in Cross River State.
The Third National Girls in ICT Competition featured projects focused on agriculture, healthcare, accessibility and education, while finalists received cash prizes, laptops and mentorship support designed to nurture the next generation of Nigerian technology innovators.
