Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of KwaraThe government has shown its commitment to make the state a center for technological advancement via the “Catch Them Young” program.
The leader showed approval of the increasing enthusiasm and achievements of youth.Kwaransin the technology sector at the recently endedKwaraCoding and Digital Skills Initiative (KCDLP) conducted in Ilorin.
The event, themed KwaraFutures: Enabling a Tech-Savvy Youth, was hosted by the Office of the Special Assistant (S.A.) to the Governor for Digital Innovation, Hon. KayodeIshola. Governor AbdulRazaqstated the government continues to be dedicated to placingKwarathrough the worldwide landscape via smooth cooperation with global technology accelerators and entry to international financial resources.
Our leadership remains steadfast in its dedication to bring about changeKwaraa symbol of technological superiority and enable our young generation to take the forefront in the digital transformation.
By funding advanced infrastructure and promoting a nurturing environment, we are providing our talented young technologists with the resources needed to transform ambitious concepts into worldwide achievements.
_for the first time in the history of our state,_Kwarais marking its presence on the global landscape of digital ventures, due to the creative drive of our business leaders and the effective strategies we have put in place,” he stated.
In his opening speech, the governor’s assistant outlinedAbdulRazaqas “the creator of a new digital”Kwara,” noting that the event was more than just a technology demonstration.
It stands as evidence of forward-thinking leadership, participatory governance, and the vast possibilities within our youth. It outlines the journey of how a single concept, grounded in vision and fairness, is reshaping education, creativity, and human development inKwara State,” he stated.
He remembered that when the governor gave approval for the pilot stage of the Coding and Digital Literacy Program in 2024, it was more than just an educational trial; it was a calculated move to get kids ready for a digital-based economy.
“He envisioned a Kwarawhere each child, irrespective of their origin or location, has the opportunity to learn, innovate, and participate on a global scale. That vision— that digital literacy is the latest essential skill — remains a key influence in our current path,” he remarked.
He stated that the KCDLP has become a national example of creativity and diversity, having trained 5,604 students in 50 public schools throughout all 16 local government areas.
“We have recruited more than 120 instructors, such as NYSC participants, certified educators, and online volunteers, and have brought coding, robotics, creative problem-solving, and digital design to thousands of students,” he stated.
Beyond the data, Isholanotable tales of change, pointing out that students inBaruten, Igbaja, and Ifeloduncurrently create animations and basic applications.
Students from Bishop Smith Memorial College in Ilorin created an educational application for people with visual impairments,” he stated, noting that “in Ajase-Ipo, training takes place at the ENACT Innovation Hub, a center formed through collaboration and a common goal.
A group of our students also won the 2025 Kids Innovation Challenge, creating the AgriTech Mini Dashboard — a smart farming tool receiving nationwide recognition.
He further explained the objectives of his office, which involve scaling the program to 100 schools and 10,000 students by mid-2026, setting up Innovation Learning Centres in each senatorial district, training additional teachers through the proposed Digital Educators Fellowship, and introducing “Girls Code Kwara” — an initiative designed to boost female involvement in technology to 60 per cent by 2026.
In the meantime, at least ten schools presented projects that centered around the creation and design of Smart School Attendance Systems, a Universal Report Card Generator, Weather Forecast Applications, a Python-driven Banking Simulation Project, the Expense Visualizer, a Web-based Dictionary Application, and the Igbaja Farm Expense Tracker (IFET) App.
The United Junior Secondary School in Ilorin took first place with the highest score, winning a cash prize of ₦1 million. Ilorin Grammar School (IGS) in Ilorin came second, receiving ₦500,000, while the Government Girls’ Day Secondary School in Pakata secured third place with ₦250,000.
Education and Human Capital Development Commissioner, Dr. LawalOlohungbebe, the government had focused more on the education sector than any previous administration in the state, noting that the initiative aimed to provide young individuals with a fair opportunity to succeed in the emerging economy.
Communications Commissioner, Hon. BolaOlukoju, stated that the governor is enthusiastic about promoting education and technological advancement.
In the same way, the Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola YusufAdelodun, praised the government for its dedication to ensuring the future of students.
Additionally addressing, Commissioner for Social Development,Hajia Mariam NnafatimaImam praised the governor for his efforts to transform public schools into centers of digital education.
Funmilayo Obi from the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) praised the governor for his faith in youth and for “sowing the seeds of innovation that are rapidly growing into a forest of progress.”
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