Telecom
NITDA Reveals Gender Digital Inclusion Plan

In a bid to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s digital economy and promote greater social and economic development for all Nigerians, the Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has revealed that the NITDA is currently prioritising the development of a Gender Digital Inclusion Strategy (DGIS).

Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, DG NITDA represented by Mrs Iklima Musa, Special Adviser to the DG on Strategy and Innovation at the United Nations International Women’s Day celebration organised by FGN Women Ambassadors Network.
Inuwa who was represented by his Special Assistant on Strategy and Innovation Mrs Iklima Musa Salihu, made this statement at the United Nations International Women’s Day celebration organised by FGN Women Ambassadors Network (FWAN-NET) in Abuja. The theme for this year’s celebration is “DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality.”
According to him, the strategy is to address the existing barriers that prevent women from fully participating in the IT sector and reaping the benefits of digital inclusion.
He said through the DGIS, NITDA plans to outline specific steps that will be taken to bridge this gap and ensure greater gender parity in Nigeria’s digital economy, by creating a more inclusive and diverse tech industry.
He noted that the Agency has identified innovation as a critical tool for implementing the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), adding that it has the advantageous objective of bridging the digital gender gap by ensuring that the digital literacy and skills pillar incorporates children, women, internally displaced persons, and the physically challenged and aligns with the Agency’s mandate of empowering all Nigerian citizens with digital skills.
“In fulfilment of this strategy, we have taken many steps to drive our nation’s prosperity by boosting digital innovation for women, creating an enabling environment that maximises the potential of all Nigerian women, promoting their ability to contribute to the economy, and ensuring their improved quality of life and well-being,” he said.
While noting NITDA’s belief that technology can bridge these gaps as women have unequal access to the same economic opportunities as men, Inuwa said it was not surprising that Nigeria, as Africa’s most vibrant ecosystem, was making waves both within and outside the continent, attracting 22% (1.2B USD) of Africa’s total investment inflow in 2022.
Inuwa also celebrated Nigerian female talents such as Kemisola Bolarinwa, founder of Next Wear Technology, a wearable/fashion technology company that designs and develops technology including the Smart Bra for breast cancer detection which uses embedded programmable electronics and sensors on clothing to solve health, security, and communication problems.
He added that through the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), the Agency has worked with its foreign-based collaborators to support 753 female and male-led start-ups through grants and sponsorships to local and global conferences and exhibitions, acceleration and incubation programmes.
“At NITDA, we have identified innovation as a critical tool for implementing the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS). Launched in 2019, the NDEPS provides a holistic and sustainable approach towards the development of Nigeria’s digital economy,” he stated.
He added that “NITDA’s deep commitment to fostering digital innovation among Nigerians is evident in several programmes and initiatives aimed at boosting the innovative capacity of our youths and women to ensure they receive the support they require.
“Through hackathons and innovation challenges, we have seen the conceptualisation of innovative ideas in an ecosystem that is primarily dominated by men, thus giving female innovators an equal opportunity. We also conducted capacity-building programmes on ICT and entrepreneurship for 360 women in various geopolitical zones,” he said.
Speaking on the Nigeria Startup Act, Inuwa said Nigeria’s tech ecosystem, the Presidency, and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy come up with the idea of Nigeria Startup Bill, which was signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari, that will serve as the means in harnessing the potential of digital economy by providing an enabling environment that can foster the growth and development of innovation for local startups.
He said the regulation will put Nigeria in a position to take advantage of the African Digital Economy estimated to be worth 300B USD by 2025, as reported by McKinsey.
Inuwa expressed his deep concern that despite the remarkable progress made in the digital arena, there remains a striking absence of women’s representation.
He lamented the fact that women are still significantly underrepresented in digital spaces, despite their undeniable competence and potential to contribute immensely to the field.
He said there is need for concerted efforts to promote gender equality and inclusivity in the digital world, where all individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive and excel.
Telecom
ATICEN Commends NLC for Suspending Strike over Telecoms Tariff Hike

Comrade Adede John Williams, president of the Association of Telecommunications, Information Technology, Cable Satellite Network Operators and Allied Services Employers’of Nigeria (ATICEN), has commended the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for suspending the planned strike over tariff hike by Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for the Nigeria telecommunications operators.

Joe Ajaero, president, NLC,
He called on members and the general assembly of the Nigeria Labour Congress, telecoms subscribers, stakeholders, and all interested parties to see the need to accept the reality of things as they unfold.
He emphasised that rising inflation, energy costs, operational costs, and currency devaluation challenges faced in the country were the key reasons for the recent tariff hike, adding that the costs of importing telecommunications equipment, the maintenance support system, and unreliable electricity supply had affected the profits supposedly accrued to telecoms operators.
He, therefore, urged the telecommunications subscribers and Nigerians to always have the interests of the services of telecommunications operators at heart for the industry’s sustainability, as the industry regulator is always championing the consumer’s protection rights.
“So, it is important to know that the recent increase in telecoms tariff was approved according to its regulatory power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA) to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges for telecommunications operators operating in Nigeria,” he said.
Williams equally acknowledged Dr. Bosun Tijani, minister, Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Dr. Aminu Maina, EVC/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), for taking a proactive step in managing the NLC’s planned strike.
Telecom
Airtel Nigeria’s Communications Director Champions Workforce Transformation at PAU Career Fair

Femi Adeniran, the Director of Corporate Communications and CSR Airtel Nigeria, has called for a human centric approach to workforce transformation in the face of rapid technological advancements.
Mr. Adeniran made this statement during a panel discussion titled ‘Building a Workforce for the New Era: Talent, Technology, and Transformation’ at the 2025 Career Fair, hosted by Pan-Atlantic University on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at the University main campus.
He stressed the importance of organizations prioritizing clear corporate communication, continuous learning, and reverse mentoring to foster a resilient, future ready workforce, highlighting how crucial corporate communication is in enhancing workforce agility and driving innovation.
“Organizations that master transparent and engaging communication are better positioned to integrate digital tools seamlessly while maintaining a strong human connection. It’s not just about technology; it’s about empowering people through effective engagement, and purpose-driven messaging.” He said.
Mr. Adeniran also urged organizations to invest in upskilling and reskilling their workforce, advocating for a proactive approach to talent development that ensures employees remain relevant amid industry shifts.
He highlighted Airtel Nigeria’s commitment to nurturing talent through initiatives such as the “Open Talent Economy” an ambitious initiative aimed at preparing undergraduates for the evolving demands of the modern workforce.
The panel discussion brought together leading industry experts, including Olabisi Omoregie (Head, Corporate Services, Fast Credit Ltd) and Abike Wesey (General Manager, HR & Admin, Mutual Benefits Assurance).
Moderated by Dr. Ruth Karachi Benson Oji, the discussion delved into the impact of artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation on employment. Panelists emphasized that while technology is reshaping job functions, human adaptability, emotional intelligence, and strategic foresight are still crucial.
The career fair reaffirms Pan-Atlantic University’s commitment to fostering meaningful engagements that bridge the gap between academia and industry. The institution remains dedicated to empowering students and professionals with the insights needed to excel in the evolving job market.
Telecom
MTN mPulse Inspires Excellence at Glorious Covenant School in Rivers State

MTN Nigeria’s mPulse team recently visited Glorious Covenant School in Rivers State to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Ikenna Ikechukwu, the 2024 MTN mPulse Spelling Bee champion.
The event, held on January 22, 2025, was not just a recognition of Ikenna’s hard work but a call to students everywhere to aim higher and reach for greatness.
The event highlighted the transformative power of education and innovation. At the 2024 Spelling Bee Grand Finale in November in Lagos, Ikenna emerged the Spelling Bee champion title, and was awarded ₦5 million scholarship, a laptop, a smartphone, and an mPulse goody bag.
His win also extended to his school, which received 10 laptops and 10 MTN 5G routers, underscoring MTN’s commitment to enhancing digital education and closing the digital divide.
“This competition isn’t just about spelling words; it’s about unlocking the potential of young Nigerians and inspiring them to achieve greatness,” said Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria. “We hope to see more students step into the spotlight like Ikenna.”
For the students and teachers at Glorious Covenant School, the visit was more than a celebration—it was a challenge to dream big.
Many of the students shared aspirations of participating in future editions of the Spelling Bee, encouraged by Ikenna’s inspiring story. “Winning this competition has changed my life,” said Ikenna. “I hope my journey motivates other students to work hard and believe in their potential.”
By visiting Glorious Covenant School, MTN not only celebrated Ikenna’s success but also reinforced its commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators. Through initiatives like the mPulse Spelling Bee, MTN continues to inspire Nigerian youth to pursue excellence and achieve their dreams.
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