Nigerian women entrepreneurs are taking the global stage in innovation, as three women-led startups presented their solutions to Japanese investors and partners during the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), according to the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
The businesses, finalists from the IgniteHer Bootcamp for Women Entrepreneurs — an initiative by NITDA in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) — pitched their ventures in a session dedicated to Africa’s startup and SME ecosystem.
One of the startups, Nextwear Technologies, demonstrated an artificial intelligence-powered device designed for early detection of breast abnormalities to improve healthcare outcomes. Nibi’s Tech highlighted its digital skills training programmes that equip young Nigerians with knowledge in coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, and web design. PrimeSafePath Solutions introduced MaternalRecord Pro, a health data platform built on artificial intelligence to support primary healthcare centres and reduce maternal mortality.
NITDA explained that the initiative is aimed at dismantling barriers that continue to limit women in the technology and SME space, particularly restricted access to funding, mentorship, and professional networks.
The programme also ties into JICA’s Project NINJA, which is focused on strengthening startup and SME ecosystems across Africa, expanding investment opportunities, and linking local entrepreneurs with global partners.
Observers note that the pitches not only underscored the contributions of Nigerian women-led SMEs in digital innovation but also created pathways for investment, partnerships, and opportunities to scale within Africa’s fast-growing technology sector.
