Nigeria needs to develop a framework for women’s integration of digital transformation to increase their representation in the technology space.
Experts who gave the advice at the Nigerian Institute of Management Chartered (NIM) 2024 Women in Management and Leadership (WIMLEAD) Conference in Lagos, southwest Nigeria said that Nigeria had the highest rate of female entrepreneurs globally, yet, only 15 per cent of its technology startup founders were women.
Speaking at the conference, with the theme “Digital Transformation and Women Leadership”, Chief Executive Officer, HerVest, Mrs Solape Akinpelu, noted that with only 28 per cent of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) leadership positions held by women, the growing field of digital transformation was a fertile ground to increase female representation in leadership roles.
Akinpelu, therefore, charged Nigerian women to integrate digital transformation in their businesses to increase value delivery to their stakeholders.
“Its adoption reduced cost, quickened development of products and services, increased entrance into new markets and amplified efficiency.
“According to the World Economic Forum, 100 trillion dollars will be added to the world economy through digital transformation by 2025. There is more work to be done regarding educating young women about tech jobs and what is out there – from engineers to coders to those in customer success roles, we are all touched and working in technology”, she said.
She also said: “Let us create a digital transformation framework, adopt agile methods, focus on interoperability, identify concrete elements of digital transformation and engage the entire organisation in digital transformation”.
The President of NIM, Dr Christiana Atako, said the conference’s theme was appropriate for the times we were in, noting that technology is key to today’s women leaders who desire to distinguish themselves and be ahead of the rest of the pack.
She said that digital transformation and women’s leadership were two crucial aspects of human development that could drive significant positive change in organisations and society.
She, however, noted that challenges women face in digital transformation included underrepresentation of women in technology, bias and stereotype and inadequate support and training.
Atako stated that to promote digital transformation in women’s leadership, there must be training and development programmes focused on digital skills and leadership and encourage mentorship and sponsorship opportunities.
“We must foster a culture of inclusivity and support, and celebrate women’s achievements and successes in digital transformation.
“By inculcating digital transformation in women’s leadership, organisations can unlock new potential, drive innovation, and create a more equitable and prosperous future,” she said.
In her remarks, First lady of Lagos State, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said women played crucial roles in modern society, serving as the bedrocks of homes and communities while contributing indispensably to various sectors of the economy.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by the wife to her Special Adviser on Mineral Resources, Mrs Victoria Olowu, lauded the NIM for the annual conference platform which promotes, protects and preserves the rights and wellbeing of women in the society.
She noted that the conference’s theme was apt and underscored the need for women to leverage technology for greater good.
“Leadership and innovative solutions are critical to driving women’s empowerment. Women in politics and leadership position bring unique insights and priorities as their involvement in governance promotes transparency, accountability and social justice. The office of the first lady in complimenting the efforts of the state government has initiated various interventions and support programmes for women, youths and children”, she stated.
“We would continue to advocate policies that address the needs of all citizens, and collaborate with stakeholders to empower them in relevant sectors to meet up with the demands of the society.
“It is my belief that with this conference, the various challenges affecting women from becoming independent and realising their full potential would be significantly addressed,” she said. (NAN)
