Nigeria has secured global recognition at the 2025 World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), as the Nigerian Communications Commission’s Digital Awareness Programme (DAP) emerged winner in the Access to Information and Knowledge category (C3).
L–R: Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, receives the WSIS 2025 Prize (Category C3: Access to Information and Knowledge) from the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Doreen Bogdan-Martin, following the selection of the Commission’s Digital Awareness Programme (DAP) as winner of the category
The DAP, which was selected from among hundreds of global entries, garnered the highest number of votes in its category, earning it the prestigious WSIS Prize for 2025. The award was presented at the WSIS Prizes Winners Ceremony held on Monday in Geneva, Switzerland.
Implemented since 2006, the DAP aims to bridge the digital divide by equipping secondary schools across Nigeria with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools and providing internet connectivity. The initiative has benefitted over 300 schools across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, supporting digital learning, research, and ICT literacy among students.
Receiving the award on behalf of Nigeria, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, expressed gratitude to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the WSIS community for recognizing the Commission’s efforts.
“This recognition is more than a celebration of past efforts—it is an encouragement to press forward,” Dr. Maida said. “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.”
In addition to the DAP’s win, four other Nigerian projects were also recognised in the Champions Category for their innovative contributions. These include:
* Women Techsters and Advanced Digital Empowerment Programme for Tertiary Institutions (ADEPTI) – under Capacity Building
* Telecom-Based Research Grant Initiative – under Enabling Environment
* Digital Learning Initiative – under e-Learning
Although they did not secure top-voted positions, the WSIS organisers acknowledged their impact and merit in promoting digital empowerment and sustainable development.
The WSIS Prizes highlight ICT-driven solutions that address global development challenges and contribute to the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The awards showcase the role of digital technologies in fostering inclusive and people-centred development.
The WSIS Forum remains one of the largest global platforms for multistakeholder dialogue on ICTs. It brings together representatives from governments, private sector, academia, civil society, and international organisations to share knowledge and best practices in building a more inclusive information society.
With the DAP’s global recognition, Nigeria continues to demonstrate leadership in leveraging technology for national development, while reaffirming its commitment to bridging the digital divide and creating a knowledge-based society.