The Federal Government of Nigeria is preparing the next generation of digital innovators. The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has announced the return of its Build-A-Thon Holiday Camp 2026, a program designed to give young Nigerians hands-on experience in coding, hardware, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Aimed at children aged 10 to 18, the initiative promises to bridge the digital skills gap early, preparing participants for a future in technology-driven industries.
The announcement was made via the Ministry’s official X handle on Tuesday, urging parents and guardians to register their children for the five-day camp.
“The Build-A-Thon Holiday Camp is back! If you’re a parent or guardian looking to give your child a head start in the digital world, now is the time. Register your ward today and set them on the path to innovation,” the ministry stated.
The Build-A-Thon Holiday Camp 2026 will run from April 20 to April 24, 2026, and targets both junior and senior secondary school students across Nigeria. Participants will learn practical skills, including:
Coding fundamentals to develop programming skills
Hardware integration for hands-on electronics experience
Internet of Things (IoT) applications, helping children understand connected devices
Problem-solving techniques to nurture innovation and creativity
The program is structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience in digital technology, fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and practical skills that can serve as a foundation for future careers in tech.
Why This Matters for Nigerians
Digital skills are increasingly essential for success in the 21st century. With global demand for tech talent rising, early exposure to coding, IoT, and problem-solving can give students a significant advantage in the job market.
By targeting young students, the Federal Government aims to:
Reduce the digital skills gap in Nigeria
Encourage early engagement with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
Promote innovation and entrepreneurship from an early age
Build a pipeline of skilled youth ready for the digital economy
Programs like Build-A-Thon also complement Nigeria’s broader goals under the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, which seeks to make technology a central driver of economic growth.
Opportunities to Take Advantage Of
Parents and guardians are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative to give their children a head start in the digital world. Early exposure to practical digital skills can:
Improve problem-solving and analytical thinking
Open doors to future tech-focused careers
Enhance creativity and innovation in real-world projects
Foster collaboration and teamwork among peers
How to Participate
Interested parents or guardians can register their children through the official channels of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy families are advised to:
Follow the Ministry’s official social media pages for updates
Contact local ICT centers or schools participating in the Build-A-Thon program
Ensure the child falls within the 10–18 age range for eligibility
Early registration is recommended as spots are limited, and the program is expected to attract significant interest from students across the country.
The Build-A-Thon Holiday Camp 2026 represents a strategic move by the Federal Government to equip young Nigerians with critical digital skills. By introducing students to coding, IoT, and problem-solving at an early age, the initiative not only fosters innovation but also prepares the youth to thrive in a technology-driven economy.
For parents, this is an opportunity to invest in their child’s future, shaping the next generation of Nigerian innovators and digital leaders.