Apply For Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge 2024 (Win N11 Million Cash Prizes)
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has launched the 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge, which aims to use technology and innovation to solve Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges.
This initiative is intended to enable participants to use technology skills in mapping solutions for the 36 Nigerian states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These maps include hospitals, schools, roads, and utilities, to provide clearer insights that support sustainable growth and enable informed decision-making.
This year’s challenge offers ₦11 million in cash prizes and aims to encourage teams of innovators to explore the Nigerian infrastructure system more deeply. The focus is on highlighting needs and opportunities, steering attention toward investments and policies that could redefine the direction of the country’s advancement.
About the Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge
The 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge is far more than a competition; it is a rallying call. It leverages data and innovation to bring to light the major infrastructural deficits in Nigeria. In this activity, participants will be grouped to create state maps that highlight the main facilities needed in society, such as health, education, transport, and others. Unlike some maps that are created and never used beyond storage on a server, these maps will form the foundation of future discussions shaping Nigeria’s development.
Challenge Goal: The primary objective is to generate geographically accurate, data-supported maps of the 36 states of Nigeria and the FCT. By drawing attention to critical areas, these maps are expected to support decisions that benefit state and national planning.
What Participants Will Do
This isn’t just about collecting data; it’s about storytelling through maps. Participants will:
- Identify Key Infrastructure: Focus on vital areas like healthcare facilities, schools, transport routes, and more in their chosen state.
- Use Mapping Tools: Employ the latest mapping and visualization software to create detailed, interactive digital maps.
- Present Insightful Narratives: It’s more than dots on a map—teams will craft narratives that highlight the needs and potentials of their state’s infrastructure.
- Submit Final Projects: Teams will submit their work as a URL link to a digital map showcasing their findings, ready to be viewed by judges and stakeholders.
Benefits of Participating
Engaging in the 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge offers a blend of rewards beyond the cash prizes. Here’s what’s on the table:
- Cash Prizes: A total of ₦11 million is at stake, with ₦1 million each for the six regional winners and a massive ₦5 million grand prize for the national champion.
- Skill Enhancement: Participants will sharpen skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), data science, and digital storytelling—skills highly valuable in infrastructure planning and beyond.
- Team Collaboration: Diverse teams with a mix of tech and non-tech talents will foster innovative ideas, merging different viewpoints into compelling solutions.
- Impact on National Development: Teams have the unique opportunity to influence Nigeria’s growth by spotlighting infrastructure gaps that can guide government and private sector actions.
- Recognition and Visibility: Winners gain exposure across state, regional, and national platforms, opening doors for future collaborations with key stakeholders in Nigeria’s development landscape.
Eligibility Criteria
To be part of this exciting challenge, participants must fulfill the following criteria:
- Nigerian Citizenship: All team members must be Nigerian citizens, verified by a National ID, Voter’s Card, Passport, or Driver’s License.
- Age Requirement: Participants must be 18 years or older, ensuring they meet the legal threshold for participation.
- Team Composition: Teams should include 2-5 members, blending technical and non-technical expertise to create a balanced and effective approach.
- State Representation: Each team must represent a specific Nigerian state, with at least one member possessing substantial knowledge of the state through residency, work, or study.
- Ethical Data Use: Teams are required to use data that is open-source or ethically sourced. Using private data without proper authorization can lead to disqualification.
- Adherence to Competition Rules: All teams must comply with the competition guidelines, maintain ethical conduct, and respect intellectual property laws.
Focus Areas for Mapping
Participants should select at least one of these focus areas for their project:
- Healthcare: Mapping hospitals, clinics, and health centers.
- Education: Highlighting schools, colleges, and universities.
- Transportation: Detailing roads, bridges, and public transport systems.
- Utilities: Showcasing water supply, electricity networks, and waste management facilities.
- Public Services: Mapping essential services like police stations, fire stations, and government offices.
How to Apply for Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge 2024
Are you ready to make your mark on the future of Nigeria’s infrastructure? If you want to participate in the forthcoming 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge, visit the Digital Nigeria website and register your team immediately.