The Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, has urged the private sector to invest in women-led tech hubs and support workplace policies that empower women in the society.
The Minister, Dr Bosun Tijani, made this call on Friday in Abuja, during a press conference to mark this year’s World Telecommunications and Information Society Day 2025 (WTISD-25) celebration coming up on Saturday.
The event is celebrated globally by the Telecommunications Community all over the world every May 17.
The theme of this year’s WTISD-25 is: “Gender Equality in Digital Transformation”.
Tijani, represented by the ministry’s Director of National Frequency, Adeyemo Olugbenga, said that the private sector players should adopt gender-responsive practices.
“We must ensure that no one, especially women and girls, is left behind. The digital economy is not just about infrastructure and innovation but about people.
“When half of our population faces barriers to access, skills and leadership in tech, we are not just failing women, we are limiting Nigeria’s potential
“This year’s theme is not just timely, it is imperative,” he said.
The Minister urged educational institutions to break stereotypes by encouraging girls to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) from primary school to University.
According to him, while Nigeria has achieved 46.2 per cent broadband penetration, a large percentage of Nigerian women do not own a smartphone, hindering their ability to access online services and economic opportunities.
“Civil Society and media should amplify the stories of women breaking barriers in tech and hold stakeholders accountable for inclusive policies
“Men and boys should be allies in challenging biases and creating a culture of equality in tech spaces,” he said.
He called on stakeholders to come together and build a future where gender equality is not just a goal, but a reality, adding that digital revolution will only be transformative when it is inclusive.
NAN
