EU, SDN Seek End to Digital Gender Gap in Niger Delta
CHIGOZIE AMADI
The European Union (EU) in collaboration with the Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN), has emphasized the need to dismantle gender barriers and advocated necessary policy reforms to advance women’s roles in the digital landscape in the Niger Delta.
This is one of the focal points raised during a One-Day Roundtable engagement organized by SDN, a nongovernmental organization with the theme, “Reducing the Digital Gender Gap in the Niger Delta,” held in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State.
In his opening remarks, the Country Chair represented by the Finance Manager of SDN, Dr. Afolabi Ogunmola, emphasized the organization’s commitment to increasing women’s involvement in technology and enhancing digital literacy, as he also highlighted the importance of supporting women-led startups in the Niger Delta to foster a more inclusive and equitable tech industry.
Dr. Ogunmola, said digital gap had remained stark and pervasive, limiting opportunities for women and women-owned businesses.
He said it’s time Nigerians recognize the fact that technology is not merely a tool; but a catalyst for transformation, reshape industries, empower communities, and drive sustainable development.
He said: “In our rapidly evolving digital landscape, acquiring digital skills has transcended the realm of advantage; it has become a necessity, particularly for women aspiring to advance in the workplace and the economy.
“At the forefront of efforts to address these disparities is the Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN). Our vision is clear: we seek a peaceful, prosperous, and pollution-free Niger Delta. Our mission is to support those affected by the extractive industries and weak governance.
“We stand alongside our citizens, providing expert and innovative solutions to foster sustainable and inclusive development.
“Today, I am proud to discuss our project, “Reducing the Digital Gender Gap in the Niger Delta,” funded by the European Union. This initiative is not just about training; it is about empowerment.
“We aim to equip women with tailored digital skills that will not only enhance their employability but also establish vital connections with job providers in the tech sector.
“Furthermore, we are committed to supporting women-owned businesses through comprehensive digital training, enabling them to thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
“Our project has several key objectives: Increasing Awareness: We must heighten awareness of the existing digital gender divide and actively address the cultural and social norms that impose barriers on women. By empowering women with both digital and soft skills, we can reshape narratives and foster an environment where women-led businesses can flourish.”
Ogunmola, further urged everyone either from government, the private sector, civil society, or academia to join us in the vital mission, so that together “we can build a future where women in the Niger Delta are not just participants in the digital economy but leaders shaping its course.”
While presenting the report of their findings, the Deputy Program Manager of SDN, Mrs. Ifeoma Ndekwu, stated that SDN seeks to implement policies that promote women’s participation in the digital economy in the Niger Delta, saying that research study indicated that while more women in Bayelsa State have access to the internet, they are not engaging in the digital economy.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Science, and Technology in Bayelsa State, Olomiete Enekpemi, along with Tech experts Theresa Briseimo and Harry Pobeni, expressed their support for the initiative, stating that it will encourage greater participation of women in the digital economy.
The one-day roundtable engagement had a breakaway section as participants were asked to brainstorm on the best possible ways to formulate policies that could bridge digital literacy.
