Federal Gov’t Promoting STEM Education, Mentorship For Women, Girls – Minister

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, mentorship, and research opportunities for women and girls in Nigeria, as the world marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, in a statement signed by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jonathan Eze, on Tuesday, highlighted the government’s efforts in fostering gender inclusion in STEM.

She praised Nigerian women and girls for their resilience and achievements in STEM fields despite existing barriers, stressing that their contributions are vital for innovation and national development. “This year’s theme, ‘Inclusive Green Growth for Gender Equality,’ aligns with our Ministry’s commitment to empowering women and girls in Nigeria. We are dedicated to creating an enabling environment that fosters their participation in science and technology,” the minister stated.

She noted that the government, under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, was actively working to bridge the gender gap in STEM through initiatives that promote education, mentorship, and innovation.

Calling for collaborative efforts, Sulaiman-Ibrahim urged stakeholders—including government agencies, private sector organizations, and civil society groups—to support programs encouraging more women and girls to pursue careers in science and technology. “Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society where women and girls have equal opportunities to thrive and contribute to the scientific community,” she added.

The minister reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that Nigerian women continue to excel in STEM, emphasising that their empowerment was key to sustainable development and technological advancement.