The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has reaffirmed its commitment to harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to grow the entrepreneurial skills of young people within the Territory.

Speaking in Abuja at the grand finale of FCT School Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Exhibition and Award, the Executive Secretary of FCT Education Secretariat, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, said the competition was targeted at making the education system a hub of practical learning.

He said, “This initiative is not just a programme, it is a movement to position our educational system as a hub of practical learning and real-world problem-solving. The theme for this year, “Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Enhance Entrepreneurship,” could not be timelier.

“In a world that is changing at the speed of thought, AI is not just a luxury for advanced economies, it is a necessity for all, particularly for young minds in developing Nations like ours.

“We can build smarter businesses, create faster solutions, and unleash innovation that transforms how we work, learn, and live. As we celebrate today’s young entrepreneurs, let us reflect on the fact that the future is already knocking.

“The students are not just competitors in a school event; they are the future CEOs, tech founders, problem-solvers, and policymakers of Nigeria. What they need is our continued support, guidance, and most importantly, opportunities to grow”.

He assured that the administration was committed to fostering a curriculum that bridges classroom theory with real-world application.

He said, “Through programmes like this, we are deliberately shifting education from passive consumption to active creation and we are saying to every child, your ideas matter. Your dreams are valid. And your creativity can build the future of this country”.

The Director, FCT Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Olobashola Kolawole, said the initiative was born to nurture the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of young minds and equip them with the tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

“Today we are here to celebrate the spirit of enterprise, the power of creativity and the ingenuity of our students and also the unveiling of The Young Innovator’s Magazine; a platform dedicated to showcasing their brilliance and inspiring future generations.

“The use of AI is not just a tool; it is a transformative force, and by harnessing its power, we can solve local and global challenges while creating sustainable opportunities. With the use of AI, the entrepreneurs can launch their product faster, cut costs and scale up their business in a smarter way.

The FCT Head of School, Entrepreneurship, Dr. Udofia Enefiok, said the complex nature of the economy has made it clear that entrepreneurship is no longer a nicety, but a necessity.

“The world needs innovative thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and bold risk-takers to drive growth, create jobs, and solve some of humanity’s most pressing challenges”.

Government Science and Technical School, Garki, Area 3, Abuja, emerged first in the competition among the top ten finalists.