Nigerian software programmer Olaniran Taiwo Sikiru has secured second place at the International High-Tech Championship Final in Veliky Novgorod, Russia, marking Nigeria’s debut at the prestigious competition.
Taiwo competed in the Quality Control Specialist for Transport Logistics Processes category, finishing among the top performers in the specialised discipline.
He was accompanied by Ojetimi Abdulfatai, a fellow Nigerian who served as his mentor and technical expert throughout the competition. While Taiwo was the official competitor, the pair worked together to represent Nigeria at the international event.
According to Channels Television, the championship was held from September 14 to 18, 2026, attracting more than 15,000 participants from 30 foreign countries, alongside representatives from all 89 regions of the Russian Federation.
Competitions were held across 20 high-tech competencies, covering areas linked to emerging technologies and professional skills.
From Software Programming to Transport Technology
Although Taiwo is a software programmer, his expertise was applied to a specialised field combining technology, logistics, quality control and modern transportation systems.
The Quality Control Specialist for Transport Logistics Processes competency focuses on professional and technological methods for maintaining quality and efficiency in transport and logistics operations.
Taiwo’s achievement also represents Nigeria’s first participation in the High-Tech Championship, opening an avenue for future Nigerian competitors to take part in international professional skills competitions.
