The Nigerian government is calling on the private sector to play a crucial role in bridging the gender gap in the tech industry. On the eve of World Telecommunications and Information Society Day 2025, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, emphasized the importance of investing in women-led tech hubs and implementing workplace policies that empower women. This year’s celebration, which takes place on May 17, is themed “Gender Equality in Digital Transformation,” and it highlights the need for collective action to address the disparities faced by women in the digital economy.
According to Dr. Tijani, who was represented by the ministry’s Director of National Frequency, Adeyemo Olugbenga, the private sector must adopt gender-responsive practices to ensure that no one is left behind. “The digital economy is not just about infrastructure and innovation, but about people,” he said. “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.” The Minister stressed that this year’s theme is not just timely, but imperative, and that it requires urgent attention from all stakeholders.
One of the key challenges faced by Nigerian women is the lack of access to smartphones, which hinders their ability to access online services and economic opportunities. Despite achieving 46.2 percent broadband penetration, a significant percentage of Nigerian women do not own a smartphone. To address this issue, the Minister urged educational institutions to break stereotypes by encouraging girls to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) from primary school to university.
The Minister also called on civil society and the media to amplify the stories of women breaking barriers in tech and to hold stakeholders accountable for inclusive policies. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of men and boys being allies in challenging biases and creating a culture of equality in tech spaces. By working together, stakeholders can build a future where gender equality is not just a goal, but a reality. As the world celebrates World Telecommunications and Information Society Day 2025, the Nigerian government’s call to action serves as a reminder that achieving gender equality in the digital economy requires a collective effort and a commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
