A fresh initiative is set to expand opportunities for women and girls in Nigeria’s technology ecosystem, as the non-governmental organisation Build Nigeria Initiative launched the ‘Build-4-Today Women in Tech AI Hackathon 2026’ in Abuja. The programme is designed to equip participants with practical skills in digital technology and artificial intelligence while fostering innovation across multiple sectors.
Founder Jude Obiejesi said the hackathon encourages young women and girls to develop technology-driven solutions addressing real-world challenges in governance, education, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The initiative responds to longstanding underrepresentation of women in the tech and AI space, aiming to cultivate a pipeline of skilled female talent for Nigeria’s digital economy.
“The hackathon is open to students, graduates, entrepreneurs, and aspiring innovators passionate about technology,” Obiejesi said. “It provides structured activities including technical workshops, mentorship sessions with industry experts, prototype development, and pitch presentations.”
Top-performing teams will be recognised with prizes such as the Grand Prize Award, Innovation Award, and Impact Award, alongside mentorship opportunities, networking, and potential access to investors.
Gift Chidima also expressed optimism that the programme will advance gender balance in the tech industry and challenge stereotypes limiting female participation in science, technology, and AI sectors.
The hackathon reflects growing efforts to create inclusive innovation pathways, connecting participants to mentorship, career opportunities, and industry networks, and positioning women as active contributors to Nigeria’s evolving digital economy.