The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has launched the 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge, a nationwide competition designed to address Nigeria’s infrastructure needs through technology and innovation.
The initiative will enable participants to create data-driven digital maps of Nigeria’s 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), focusing on critical infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, roads, and utilities.
The goal is to provide thorough insights to aid sustainable development and decision-making processes.
The competition, which comes with cash prizes totaling ₦11 million, invites teams of innovators to showcase Nigeria’s infrastructure needs and opportunities, helping drive strategic investments and government policies to improve the nation’s development.
Benefits
Participants in the 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge will gain the following benefits:
- Cash Prizes: A total of ₦11 million is up for grabs, with ₦1 million awarded to each of the six regional winners and ₦5 million to the national grand prize winner.
- Skill Development: The challenge will help participants build required skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), data science, and digital storytelling, all of which are essential for infrastructure planning and development.
- Collaboration: Participants will work in diverse teams that combine technical and non-technical expertise, promoting collaboration and innovation.
- National Impact: The competition allows participants to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development by stressing critical infrastructure needs that can guide government policies and private sector investments.
- Visibility: Winners at each level will gain recognition at the state, regional, and national levels, increasing opportunities for future projects and partnerships with stakeholders in Nigeria’s development sector.
Eligibility
To participate in the 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge, the following eligibility criteria must be met:
- Nigerian Citizenship: All participants must be Nigerian citizens with valid identification (National ID, Voter’s Card, International Passport, or Driver’s License).
- Age Requirement: Participants must be 18 years or older at the time of registration to ensure legal participation.
- Team Composition: Each team must consist of 2-5 members, combining both technical and non-technical expertise to facilitate a well-rounded approach to problem-solving.
- State Representation: Teams must represent a specific Nigerian state, with at least one member having an in-depth understanding of the state, either through residency, work, or academic experience.
- Ethical Data Use: Participants are required to use open or ethically sourced data for their projects. Use of proprietary data without permission may result in disqualification.
- Compliance with Rules: Participants must adhere to all rules and regulations of the competition, including moral conduct and respect for intellectual property rights.
How to Apply
Interested participants can apply for the 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge via the website.
