FG deepens investment in robotics, AI as over 500 students compete at national championship

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening robotics, artificial intelligence and digital skills education, as more than 500 students from across the country showcased their talents at the 12th edition of the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) and FIRST LEGO League (FLL) National Robotics Competition in Abuja.

The event, held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, brought together students from federal unity colleges, state and private secondary schools, as well as basic education institutions to compete in robotics design, coding, artificial intelligence and problem-solving challenges.

Speaking at the competition, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, described the integration of technology into Nigeria’s education system as essential rather than optional.

She said the Federal Government remains committed to building a future-ready, technology-driven education sector through sustained investments in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM), digital skills, robotics and innovation-focused learning.

Ahmad also commended development partners, including the Coderina EdTech Foundation, for supporting the initiative and helping to nurture young innovators.

Also addressing participants, the Director of Technology and Science Education, Dr. Mrs. Muyibat Adenike Olodo, described Nigerian youths as a strategic national asset capable of driving the country’s technological growth.

She emphasised the importance of inclusive, ethical and sustainable innovation, noting that students at the competition developed practical robotics solutions to real-world challenges.

At the end of the contest, Queen’s College, Lagos, represented by Aurora Team 2, emerged overall champion and secured qualification for the World Festival in Houston, Texas, where they will represent Nigeria alongside other selected teams.

The competition highlighted Nigeria’s expanding presence in global robotics education and reinforced the Federal Government’s push to equip students with 21st-century skills needed for national development.