To mark International Women’s Day, 300 young women in Lagos have received ICT scholarships through a partnership between Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, member of the House of Representatives for Kosofe Federal Constituency, and tech training provider New Horizons Nigeria. The initiative aims to bridge the gender gap in technology and equip Nigerian women with vital digital skills for today’s economy.
Ogbara, who chairs the House Committee on Women’s Affairs and Social Development, said the initiative reflects the need for action in tackling gender inequality. “International Women’s Day calls for reflection, action, and unity. We are here to act,” she declared.
The six-week training program, conducted by New Horizons Nigeria, focuses on high-demand areas like coding, data analysis, and cybersecurity. Ogbara praised the CEO of New Horizons, Tim Akano, for his dedication to empowering women through digital education. She encouraged the beneficiaries to embrace the opportunity with confidence. “Dismiss any notion of impossibility. Take control of your lives,” she said.
She emphasised that empowering women goes beyond personal achievement—it contributes to national growth. “This training fosters independence, innovation, and the capacity to make meaningful societal contributions,” she said.
Akano described the program as a strategic investment in women’s long-term career development. He explained that participants were selected on merit, with an eye on those showing strong potential for professional success in tech. “We are laying the groundwork for them to build a future based on their individual aspirations,” he said.
He stressed that the program was designed for graduates and professionals, not as a basic vocational course but as a pathway to becoming IT professionals. “Do you enjoy coding? Are you prepared for the challenges of it? These are the questions that matter,” he added, highlighting the economic importance of supporting women in technology.
Two of the class representatives, Fauzia Salako-Sani and Damilola Obiriko, expressed gratitude for the opportunity and shared their ambitions. Salako-Sani, a broadcast journalist, said the training would enhance her work and motivate others to stay focused. Obiriko, a brand analyst and New Horizons alumna, said the training would deepen her expertise in data analysis and cybersecurity, helping her stand out in the tech space.
The program represents a push for inclusive innovation in Nigeria’s digital economy, offering women tools not just to participate, but to lead.
