Keystone Bank Chairman, Ada Chukwudozie, Champions Youth and Female Innovators at National Science and Tech Expo

In a powerful demonstration of corporate leadership aligned with national development, Lady (Dr.) Ada Chukwudozie, the Board Chairman of Keystone Bank Limited, has taken a definitive stand in fostering the next generation of Nigerian innovators. At a recent high-profile academic gathering, she personally rewarded and inspired outstanding young scientists and female tech pioneers, reinforcing her renowned passion for youth empowerment and gender inclusion in the critical fields of science and technology.

A Platform for Indigenous Innovation

The occasion was the 7th Energy, Science, Technology, and Innovation Conference and Exhibitions (FAPSCON 2025), held at the prestigious Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) in Igbariam, Anambra State. The conference served as a vibrant melting pot of ideas, bringing together leading academics, policymakers, ambitious entrepreneurs, and the nation’s most promising students. Their collective mission was to deliberate on the timely theme: “Leveraging Indigenous Technology and Recalibrating National Priorities for Achievable Tech Innovations and SDGs in Nigeria.”

As a cornerstone of the event’s activities, Lady Chukwudozie presented cash prizes to the brilliant winners of the Young Scientists and the “Girls in Tech” categories. This strategic gesture was far more than a ceremonial act; it was a tangible investment in human capital, directly reflecting Keystone Bank’s long-standing and deeply held commitment to promoting education, homegrown innovation, and bridging the gender gap in technology.

A Clarion Call to Nigeria’s Youth

During her stirring keynote address, Lady Dr. Chukwudozie issued a powerful charge to the young minds in attendance. She urged Nigerian youths to take bold, decisive steps in driving homegrown innovation capable of fundamentally transforming the nation’s economic landscape. She posited that the future of Nigeria’s technological advancement does not lie in imported solutions, but in the potent combination of indigenous creativity, innate resilience, and the courage to challenge global standards.

“The world is rapidly evolving, and Nigeria must not be left behind. We have brilliant minds and immense natural resources. When our young innovators embrace creativity and focus on solutions rooted in local realities, we can redefine our economic destiny,” she stated with conviction.

Elaborating further on the mindset required for national transformation, she added, “Innovation is not about waiting for others to show the way; it is about thinking differently, daring to try, and believing that what we have here in Nigeria is enough to create world-class solutions. We must stop the culture of dependency and start building confidence in our local capacity. Every great nation began by believing in itself — and that belief must begin with you, the young people of this nation.”

Empowering Women in Tech: A Non-Negotiable Imperative

With a specific focus on the “Girls in Tech” awardees, Lady Chukwudozie delivered an inspiring message of affirmation and challenge. She directly addressed the stereotypes that often discourage women from pursuing careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), championing the unique and vital contributions women bring to the tech ecosystem.

“To every young woman here, your dreams are valid. The future of technology belongs not just to men, but to every determined woman who dares to innovate,” she declared. “We must continue to challenge the stereotype that science and technology are for men alone. Women bring creativity, compassion, and balance to innovation. When women lead in technology, the impact is deeper and more sustainable. So, rise, take your place, and let your brilliance light the path for others.”

A Gathering of National Influencers

The significance of the event was amplified by the presence of other notable personalities who share a common vision for Nigeria’s technological renaissance. The Vice Chancellor of COOU, Professor Kate Azuka Omenugha, served as the Chief Host, providing the academic backbone for the conference. The session was chaired by Chief Ifedi Godfrey Nwaejim, CEO of Treasures Suites and Conference, Abuja, while the Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Chinedu Nwoye, was also in attendance. A thought-provoking guest lecture was delivered by Engr. Dr. Chidi Nwafor, adding depth to the technical discussions.

Participants and attendees universally commended Lady Chukwudozie and Keystone Bank for their consistent and impactful investment in human capital development. In a climate where talk often outweighs action, this initiative was hailed as a concrete step towards building a self-reliant, innovation-driven Nigeria. By rewarding excellence and voicing a compelling vision for the future, Lady Chukwudozie has not only empowered individual innovators but has also helped to catalyze a broader movement towards indigenous technological sovereignty.

This expanded report is based on the original coverage of the event. Credit and acknowledgment are due to the original writer and source for the initial information.