The Honorable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochuckwu Udeh, SAN, , has said that innovation does not flourish in isolation but thrives where vision meets collaboration; where government enables ideas; academics nurtures talents; and where young people step confidently into the future they intend to shape.
The Minister stated this today during the grand finale of Coderina University Challenge (COUCH) 2025 at the National University Commission in Abuja.
According to Udeh, the theme ”together we build’’ reminds us that Nigeria’s aspiration as a nation driven by science, powered by technology and sustain by innovation, can only be realized when stakeholders actively contributes to building a shared future that lifts the standard of living of Nigerians.
He reiterated that COUCH is a powerful platform where ideas meet opportunity, where scientific knowledge is translated into tangible solutions and where young innovators demonstrate that the nation is not short of talent but only the right structures can elevate and scale that talent for the benefit of the populace.
Dr. Kingsley noted that the leadership envisioned a nation where STI is a way of life, creativity is rewarded, science is celebrated, technology is accessible and every young Nigerian has the tools and support to translate ideas into impact. Adding that the Ministry is ready to partner with Coderina, National University Commission, Development Agencies and industries to scale the initiative and ensure that the outcome of COUCH are not simply applauded but supported, incubated and integrated into national development priorities for the benefit of the citizens.
He commended Coderina Education and Technology Foundation for its unwavering commitment to expanding digital literacy and fostering innovation across Nigeria and Africa at large.
Earlier, Executive Secretary of National University Commission (NUC) Professo Abdullahi Ribadu said that the initiative is not just for competition but for celebration of creativity, resilience and extra ordinary potentials of Nigeria University students.
Rubadu as well commended Education Technology Foundation for ensuring that COUCH comes at no financial cost to participating universities or the Commission.
Signed
Pauline Sule (Mrs) anipr
Head, PPRU
