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As the world marks the 2025 World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD), Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani has stressed that achieving gender equality is crucial for driving inclusive digital transformation and unlocking sustainable prosperity.
Speaking in Abuja during an event commemorating WTISD with the theme “Gender Equality in Digital Transformation”, Tijani, represented by the director, national frequency management council secretariat, Engr. Adeyemo Olugbenga, said digital innovation is a powerful tool for addressing global challenges. These include combating climate change and eradicating poverty through technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), improved connectivity and inclusive access to digital services.
WTISD, observed annually on May 17, is spearheaded by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to raise awareness about the benefits of the Internet and ICTs. This year’s focus on gender equality highlighted the need to close the digital divide and ensure women and girls are not left behind in the digital age.
Tijani noted that despite Nigeria’s notable strides in digital infrastructure and innovation, significant gender gaps remain, particularly in smartphone ownership and access to digital skills and opportunities.
“Digital transformation must be inclusive,” he said. “When barriers prevent women and girls from accessing technology, acquiring digital skills, or leading in tech-driven sectors, we do not just limit their potential – we limit the potential of our entire nation and the world.”
He acknowledged encouraging developments where Nigerian women are excelling in fields such as fintech, healthtech and edtech. These advances, he said, are reshaping Nigeria’s digital landscape and demonstrating the vast potential of women as leaders in technology and innovation.
While broadband penetration in Nigeria stands at 46.2 per cent, Tijani lamented that nearly 68 per cent of Nigerian women still do not own smartphones. This limits their access to vital online services, financial platforms, education and other economic opportunities.
However, he praised initiatives like DevsInGovernment, a growing community of tech enthusiasts within the civil service, and the increasing participation of women and girls in coding boot camps and robotics competitions, noting these as positive signs of change.
To accelerate inclusive digital growth, the minister highlighted key initiatives spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCI&DE). These include:
National Gender Digital Inclusion Strategy (NGDIS) 2024–2027: This policy promotes digital inclusivity for women and girls, focusing on creating safe online spaces, enhancing digital literacy, and empowering women in tech-driven industries.
Skills Development: The government has scaled up initiatives such as the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme, Digital Nigeria and e-Government initiatives. These aim to equip 70 per cent of Nigerian women and girls with advanced digital skills by 2027.
Access to Funding: In collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB), the World Bank and private sector investors, the government is providing grants and low-interest loans to women-led tech startups to support innovation and entrepreneurship.
Safe Digital Spaces: Efforts are underway to strengthen cybersecurity frameworks and implement robust anti-harassment policies to protect women and girls online.
Tijani urged the private sector, civil society organisations and educational institutions to invest in women-led tech hubs, adopt inclusive workplace policies and support programmes that empower women and girls in technology.
“Innovation should reflect the diversity of the society it seeks to transform,” he said. “Leaving half of the population behind limits our ability to achieve sustainable progress.”
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to driving gender-inclusive digital transformation, noting that empowering women is not just a social imperative but also a strategic economic priority for Nigeria’s digital future.
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