By SCM Tech Desk
GENEVA — Nigeria secured a significant victory on the global stage this week, as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) was awarded the top prize at the 2025 World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).
The honor recognizes the country’s efforts to bridge the digital divide through its Digital Awareness Programme (DAP).
The award was presented during a ceremony held on Monday in Geneva, Switzerland, organized by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). Nigeria’s project triumphed in Category C3, which focuses on “Access to Information and Knowledge,” after receiving the highest number of votes among hundreds of international submissions.
The Digital Awareness Programme, the cornerstone of the NCC’s winning entry, is designed to modernize Nigeria’s education system by equipping secondary schools with essential Information and Communication Technology (ICT) resources. Since its inception in 2006, the programme has provided internet connectivity and computer hardware to over 300 schools across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, facilitating research and digital literacy for thousands of students.
Receiving the award on behalf of the commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, described the win as a validation of Nigeria’s long-term commitment to digital equity.
“This recognition is more than a celebration of past efforts—it is an encouragement to press forward,” Dr. Maida said during his acceptance remarks. “It affirms that investing in digital inclusion is investing in national development, and that Nigeria’s work is being seen and valued on the global stage.”
A Strong Showing for Nigerian Innovation
While the DAP took home the top honor, Nigeria’s presence was felt throughout the ceremony.
Four other Nigerian initiatives were recognized in the “Champions Category” for their significant merit: Women Techsters: An initiative aimed at closing the gender gap in the tech industry.
ADEPTI: The Advanced Digital Empowerment Programme for Tertiary Institutions.
Telecom-Based Research Grant Initiative: Focused on creating an enabling environment for innovation.
Digital Learning Initiative: A project recognized under the e-Learning category.
The WSIS Prizes are considered one of the most prestigious benchmarks in the global ICT sector, evaluating how technology is being used to meet United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
For Nigeria, the win serves as a milestone in its “Renewed Hope” agenda, signaling a push to transition the nation into a leading digital economy in Africa.
As the ceremony concluded, Dr. Maida emphasized that the accolade would serve as “further motivation” for the NCC to expand its reach, ensuring that the benefits of the digital age extend to the most remote corners of the country.
