As members of the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) prepare to cast their votes at this year’s Conference and Annual General Meeting, technology stakeholders are warning that the outcome will have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s youth and the nation’s place in the global digital economy.
Jide Awe, technology pioneer, has described the election as a defining moment for the society and the country’s future. He insists it is about relevance, not routine, stressing that the vote goes beyond filling executive positions, as it will help unlock Nigeria’s vast youth talent.
Awe, a fellow of the NCS and a long-time participant in its leadership, noted that Nigeria has Africa’s largest youth population, a generation born into cloud computing, artificial intelligence, robotics and the gig economy; yet too many are forced to teach themselves with inadequate tools, drop out of outdated programmes, or give up entirely, not for lack of effort but for lack of access and opportunity. He warned that Nigeria is losing some of its best tech talent to other countries, and that the real danger is not just a brain drain but the erosion of the country’s digital sovereignty.
He believes NCS must evolve from being a professional association into a national backbone for computing development and digital transformation. This, he says, will require leaders with vision, competence, empathy and the courage to champion reforms in education, create inclusive platforms for skills and infrastructure, expand mentorship and industry linkages, foster public–private partnerships for innovation funding, and bring more youth and women into the profession.
Awe reminded members that elections do not just choose office holders but determine whether the society will be led by builders or seat warmers, by arrogant, self-serving tyrants or emotionally intelligent leaders. While no candidate is perfect, he emphasized that sincerity, commitment and a purpose-driven approach matter most. Quoting Nobel laureate Toni Morrison, he said: “If you have some power, then your job is to empower somebody else.”
Under the NCS constitution, only inducted Professional or Corporate Members in good financial standing and registered for the conference can vote. Awe urged eligible members, especially younger professionals, to take part actively, arguing that the system cannot be reshaped from the sidelines. For those without voting rights, he encouraged influencing members within their networks, warning that the destiny of Nigeria’s youth will be shaped by the leaders chosen now. “This vote is too important to ignore. Let us make it count for our youth, and for our digital future,” he advised.
