The Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has called on private companies to support women-led tech hubs and improve workplace policies that uplift women in society.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the Minister of Communications, Dr Bosun Tijani, urged businesses to invest in women in tech. The event was part of the activities ahead of the 2025 World Telecommunications and Information Society Day (WTISD), which will be held on Saturday.
WTISD is a global event celebrated every May 17 by those in the telecommunications and technology industries. It focuses on the importance of communication technologies in society.
The theme for WTISD 2025 is “Gender Equality in Digital Transformation”. Representing the Minister, Director Adeyemo Olugbenga emphasized that companies should adopt policies that ensure women and girls are included in digital growth.
He stressed that digital transformation should not leave anyone behind, especially women and girls. The goal of a digital economy is not just about creating tech tools, but about improving people’s lives.
“When women are held back from accessing tech, learning digital skills, or leading in the industry, it’s not just them who lose—we’re holding the entire country back,” the Minister warned.
He added that the WTISD theme for 2025 is not just timely, but necessary for Nigeria’s progress.
Tijani urged schools to break gender stereotypes by supporting girls to study Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) from a young age through to university level.
Even though Nigeria has achieved 46.2% broadband penetration, many women still don’t have smartphones. This prevents them from accessing online services and seizing economic opportunities.
He also called on civil society groups and media outlets to highlight the stories of women who are succeeding in tech. He said they should push for policies that ensure digital spaces are open to all.
He added that men and boys should support women by challenging unfair treatment and helping create a more equal environment in the tech industry.
In closing, the Minister urged all sectors of society to come together and build a future where gender equality is more than a goal—it becomes reality.
