By Joy Odor
Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has highlighted the persistent gender gaps in Nigeria’s digital landscape, particularly in smartphone ownership and access to digital opportunities.
Speaking at a press briefing heralding the commemoration of the 2025 World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) celebrated every 17th May of every year, lamented that despite the country’s 46.2% broadband penetration, nearly 68% of Nigerian women do not own smartphones.
Dr. Tijani emphasized the importance of achieving gender equality in driving inclusive digital transformation and unlocking sustainable prosperity.
He recognized President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to bridging the divide through initiatives like the National Gender Digital Inclusion Strategy (NGDIS) and programs promoting digital skills development, access to funding, and safe online spaces for women.
The Minister outlined key initiatives, including:
– *Digital Skills Development*: Programs like the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) and Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme aim to equip 70% of Nigerian women and girls with advanced digital skills by 2027.
– *Access to Funding*: Collaborations with the African Development Bank and World Bank to provide grants and low-interest loans to women-led tech startups.
– *Safe Digital Spaces*: Strengthening cybersecurity frameworks and implementing anti-harassment policies to protect women and girls online.
“Objectives of the WTISD include raising awareness on benefits of the use of the Internet, ICT and Digital Innovations to connect the entire world and unlock sustainable prosperity, whilst having the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) at the forefront of this global mission.
“This year’ s theme is not just timely but imperative as the Digital Economy must be inclusive”. “When barriers prevent females from accessing technology, acquiring digital skills or leading in tech driven industries, we do not just limit their potentials but also the world’s potentials”, he added.
Dr. Tijani noted inspiring developments showcasing Nigerian women’s excellence in fintech, healthtech, and edtech, signaling a promising future.
He emphasized that digital transformation must be inclusive and called for collective action beyond government intervention, urging private sector leaders, educational institutions, civil society, and individuals to champion inclusivity in the digital space.
“Digital transformation must be inclusive. “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.
“These advances are reshaping Nigeria’s digital landscape and demonstrating the vast potential of women as leaders in technology and innovation. This limits their access to vital online services, financial platforms, education and other economic opportunities” he noted.
The Ministry reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring women and girls can fully participate in the digital economy, making gender equality a reality.
