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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is encouraging young girls to prepare for careers in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), as the country works to bridge the gender gap in the industry. This message was shared during the 12th edition of the International Girls in ICT event, organized by eBusiness Life Communications Limited in Lagos.
In his keynote address, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the NCC, called for girls to receive strong Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. He emphasized that breaking gender stereotypes and offering positive role models are crucial steps in closing the gender gap in ICT.
Dr. Maida referenced the 2023 Global Gender Gap Report, which showed that women make up only 29.2% of the STEM workforce worldwide. He pointed out that despite the huge impact of technology in all aspects of life, women remain underrepresented in the ICT sector.
“As technology continues to influence areas like communication, healthcare, education, and entertainment, it’s clear that it drives progress,” said Dr. Maida, who was represented by Nnenna Ukoha, the NCC’s Deputy Director and Head of Corporate Communication. “However, there is still a noticeable gender gap in the ICT industry that needs to be addressed.”
The event, which focused on “Leadership,” also shed light on how women in ICT are often stuck in lower-level roles and face fewer chances for advancement. Mrs. Ufuoma Emuophedaro, CEO of e-Business Life Communications and convener of the event, talked about the challenges women face in moving into leadership positions and becoming ICT entrepreneurs.
Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), joined the event virtually and shared her thoughts on leadership. She emphasized that leadership is not just about having a title, but also about using ideas and innovation to navigate change with confidence.
Other speakers, including Kemi Fadipe, Head of the Contact Centre at Globacom, and Bimbo Ikumariegbe, Deputy Managing Director at VDT Communications, urged the girls to focus on STEM subjects, improve critical thinking, and develop leadership skills that are essential for success in the male-dominated tech industry.
Sandra Nwaigwe, Business Development Manager at inq Digital, also encouraged the girls to start preparing for their future in ICT and to be ready to stand tall like the women who have made a significant impact in the field.
During the event, awards were given to organizations and individuals who have worked to support girls in STEM and ICT careers. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), digital strategist Ayeni Oluwatobi Dorcas (Miss Techy), and Tinuade Oguntuyi, Head of Network and Solutions at Information Connectivity Solutions Limited (ICSL), were all honored for their efforts.
Mrs. Jumoke Alaka of NITDA accepted the award on behalf of the agency and reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment to encouraging young girls to pursue careers in STEM and ICT.
The event also featured fun activities like a STEM quiz, vlogging competition, and a roundtable discussion for students, led by journalist Louisa Olaniyi.
