MTN Nigeria, Digital Encode Partner To Inspire Next Generation Of Female Tech Leaders

MTN Nigeria and cybersecurity firm Digital Encode have joined forces with eBusiness Life Communication Limited to support the 2025 International Girls in ICT Day campaign.

The event, scheduled for May 15, 2025, in Lagos, is part of a global initiative by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) aimed at bridging the gender gap in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This year’s campaign, themed “Girls in ICTs: Bridging ALL Divides for an Inclusive Digital Transformation,” seeks to spark interest in ICT careers among young girls and equip them with the tools to thrive in the digital age.

By backing this initiative, MTN and Digital Encode are not just lending their names, they are investing in the future of Nigeria’s digital economy, the CEO of eBusiness Life and the event’s convener, Mrs. Ufuoma Emuophedaro averred, while speaking to newsmen in Lagos, adding that both organizations bring industry-leading expertise and influence to the table, helping to create opportunities for female students who may otherwise have limited exposure to technology.

“To close the gender gap, we must actively create pathways for young girls to see themselves as future tech innovators, engineers, and digital leaders,” Emuophedaro stated.

Nigeria’s tech sector still faces a significant gender imbalance, with women comprising less than a quarter of the workforce. Through mentorship, hands-on competitions, and inspirational sessions, the campaign aims to change that narrative.

Activities at this year’s event will include a robotics and AI challenge for female secondary school students, a STEM quiz competition, and keynote speeches from prominent women in the ICT space. Government and private sector stakeholders will also be present to show support and explore strategies for building a more inclusive tech ecosystem.