10 Inspiring ‘Firsts’ of Nigerian Women in Tech
The Nigerian technology industry has been experiencing an impressive growth trajectory, and it’s inspiring to see how this tech-driven solutions hub is driving innovation and creating new opportunities for its people. Infact, Nigeria’s ICT sector contributed 18.44% to the country’s GDP in the second quarter of the previous year, according to the World Economic Forum.
One of the most impressive aspects of this advancement is the significant contribution of women in the sector, even though women constitute only 30% of professionals in the tech sector in sub-Saharan Africa. Research from ONE Campaign and the Center for Global Development also showed that only about 30% of 93 surveyed technology companies in Nigeria are owned by women, and more than one-third of these companies employed no women.
These women have defied gender stereotypes and pave the way for more women to participate in the tech industry. Recognizing and celebrating their accomplishments is crucial, as it promotes diversity and encourages more women to join the field. So, here are the ‘firsts’ of Nigerian women in technology, listed in no particular order.
1. Funke Opeke
Funke Opeke is an inspiring tech pioneer in Nigeria who built the first privately owned submarine cable connecting West Africa to Europe. With a degree in Electrical Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, she embarked on a career journey that honed her skills in various roles, garnering a profound understanding of the telecommunications landscape.
Opeke’s vision and tenacity propelled MainOne, the submarine cable system, to fruition, marking a historic milestone in the region’s tech infrastructure. Her creation facilitated faster data transmission, improved online experiences, and empowered businesses with the tools to thrive in an increasingly digital world. The ripple effect of MainOne’s high-speed internet infrastructure extends to education, healthcare, and commerce, transforming the socio-economic landscape of the region.
Funke Opeke Quote:
“There is so much opportunity, there is so much need here that we need to transform our society when you look around us. No one will do it for us, and we also have to get our government on board with us to meet Nigerians’ aspirations because that’s what democracy is all about.”
2. Juliet Ehimuan-Chiazor
Juliet Ehimuan-Chiazor is a respected figure in Nigeria’s tech industry, known for her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing the field. With her background in Computer Engineering and an MBA, she has made significant contributions to the African tech industry.
As the first woman to lead Google Nigeria, she broke barriers and brought visionary thinking and strategic acumen to her role. Her leadership style, characterized by inclusivity and innovation, transformed Google Nigeria into a dynamic hub for tech exploration and collaboration. Ehimuan-Chiazor’s journey illuminates the transformative power of leadership that transcends gender, fostering a culture of innovation and equal opportunities within the tech industry.
Juliet Ehimuan Quote:
“Self-evaluation is key on an ongoing basis to ensure that you are making intended progress.”
3. Florence Seriki
Florence Seriki emerged boldly from Nigeria’s tech ecosystem in a remarkable tale of grit and vision. After earning her degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, she gained expertise in various aspects of technology before embarking on a mission to revolutionize tech manufacturing in Nigeria.
In 1991, she founded Omatek Ventures, the first computer manufacturing factory in Nigeria and Ghana. The company produced high-quality laptops, desktops, and tablets that met international standards and showcased Nigeria’s engineering and manufacturing capabilities. Florence Seriki’s pioneering efforts transformed the perception of locally made tech products and inspired a generation of tech entrepreneurs in Nigeria.
Florence Seriki was known for her visionary leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. She once said, “I don’t have pressure of any kind; I do my work the way I should”, reflecting her calm and determined approach.
“I don’t have pressure of any kind; I do my work the way I should.”
4. Omobola Johnson
Omobola Johnson is a tech leader who has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s tech landscape. She holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Manchester and a master’s in digital Electronics from King’s College London. Before her public service, she worked for multinational corporations such as Accenture.
In 2011, she became Nigeria’s first female Minister of Communication Technology, where she developed and implemented policies and initiatives to position Nigeria as a digital hub, encouraging investments in the tech sector and supporting local tech startups. Her achievements include the development of the National Broadband Plan, which aimed to enhance internet connectivity across the nation.
Omobola Johnson Quote:
“If we don’t try to solve [the problem of gender inequality], nobody is going to solve it for us.”
5. Dr. Olayinka David-West
Dr. Olayinka David-West is an accomplished academic and professional with a strong foundation in Computer Science. She holds a master’s degree in information systems and Analysis from Loughborough University and a Ph.D. in Information Systems from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Dr. David-West has much practical experience in consulting, project management, and technology leadership.
She made history as the first woman to hold the position of Academic Director and Senior Fellow in information systems at the Lagos Business School. Her research focuses on digital financial services and financial inclusion, and her teachings prepare students for roles shaping financial systems’ future. Dr. David-West is a true pioneer in information systems education, shaping curricula and mentoring the next generation of professionals.
6. Nkemdilim Begho
Nkemdilim Begho is a tech entrepreneur who contributed significantly to Nigeria’s industry. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a master’s degree in management, she is the first woman to have found and led a full-service IT solutions company in Nigeria.
This full-service IT solutions company offers web development, e-learning, digital marketing, and bespoke software solutions to clients across various industries. Through her company, Nkemdilim fosters efficiency, scalability, and competitiveness in businesses while developing a robust ecosystem fostering innovation, job creation, and economic growth in Nigeria.
Nkemdilim Begho Quote:
“The notion is always that women should do art, be fashion designers, etcetera. I don’t agree with all that. Some women are astronauts! So, you can do whatever you put your mind to.”
7. Ire Aderinokun
Ire Aderinokun is Nigeria’s first female Google Developer Expert and user interface designer. She studied Psychology at the University of Lagos and is keenly interested in the intersection of design and technology. Her journey represents a fusion of creativity and innovation in user interface and user experience design.
She co-founded Helicarrier, promoting cryptocurrency infrastructure in Africa, and played a crucial role in advocating for women’s equality and empowerment as a founding member of the Feminist Coalition. Aderinokun’s contributions have shattered preconceived notions and opened doors for aspiring designers and women in the tech industry.
Ire Aderinokun Quote:
“What I learned is that passion is like a great thing. But it’s great because it allows you to do all the hard work you need to do to become great at what you do.”
8. Odunayo Eweniyi
Odunayo Eweniyi is a tech industry entrepreneur who co-founded PiggyVest, West Africa’s first online savings and investment platform. She holds a Management and Computer Science degree from Covenant University and started her career in software development and system analysis. PiggyVest became a trailblazer in personal finance management in Nigeria thanks to its innovative features.
Odunayo’s leadership has significantly shaped Africa’s broader financial technology landscape. She’s also a passionate advocate for women’s rights and equality, as evidenced by her role as a member of the Feminist Coalition championing women’s rights, equality, and justice.
Odunayo Eweniyi Quote:
“Embrace failure and be ready for it: it will happen at some point, so it just depends on what you do with it.”
9. Modupe Odele
Modupe Odele is a legal tech innovator, entrepreneur, and advocate for women’s equality. With a law degree from the University of Lagos and a master’s in international business law from the University of London, Odele established herself as a trailblazer in the legal tech landscape in Nigeria.
She founded Vazi Legal, Nigeria’s first legal tech platform, offering online legal solutions tailored to the unique challenges startups and SMEs face. Odele’s commitment to demystifying legal complexities empowers entrepreneurs with the legal knowledge and tools to navigate the business landscape. Odele is also a prominent member of the Feminist Coalition, advocating for women’s rights and social justice in Nigeria.
Modupe Odele Quote:
“My work is driven by a passion for human rights, counterterrorism, and the rights of Internally Displaced Persons.”
10. Tope Omotolani
Tope Omotolani is one of the Nigerian women in tech who breaks new ground and is known for her entrepreneurial prowess and commitment to social impact. She co-founded Crowdyvest, an impact-driven community that goes beyond conventional financial transactions to foster a sense of shared purpose and community-driven initiatives.
Omotolani’s vision for interdependence through the platform aligns with the global shift towards sustainable and community-centric business models. She also co-founded Farmcrowdy, Nigeria’s first digital agriculture platform, which has played a vital role in enhancing food production and economic empowerment within rural communities. Omotolani’s journey is a testament to the transformative potential of combining technology with a focus on social impact.
Tope Omotolan Quote:
“The best way to handle doubt is to try out those things you are scared of by starting small. When you try and see the result, it fuels your conviction, you learn, and it helps you improve. Adversity is a faith and muscle builder; it makes you stronger and forces you out of your comfort zone. So, I welcome it with an open mind and see it as an opportunity to learn and create value.”
There is always room for more. Here is an honourable mention:
Damilola Olokesusi
Damilola Olokesusi, the co-founder and CEO of Shuttlers, started on her entrepreneurial journey after a personal experience. Her sister’s traumatic encounter on a ‘one-chance’ bus inspired her to create Shuttlers, a ride-sharing platform transforming the daily commutes of professionals in Lagos.
Shuttlers stand out in the ride-sharing industry with its innovative integration of mobile technology and data analytics. This unique approach has not only improved commuting efficiency but has also enhanced accessibility and affordability for professionals across Lagos and beyond.
Olokesusi’s vision and leadership at Shuttlers showcase her ability to drive meaningful change, highlighting the diverse contributions of Nigerian women in shaping the future of technology and society.
Despite initial scepticism, Olokesusi’s perseverance with Shuttlers has been rewarded with numerous accolades. The company has been recognized at prestigious events such as Demo Africa in Nigeria, Unreasonable Institute, Women in Africa Contest, and Aso Villa Demo Day, further validating their success and inspiring others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
Damilola Olokesusi Quote:
“So, I was convinced that Shuttlers would work, even though everyone around me had doubts. They tried convincing me otherwise, but I didn’t listen. I had a clear conviction that Shuttlers was the way to go.”
Concluding Remarks
The technology industry in Nigeria has experienced a significant transformation in recent years, thanks in part to the remarkable impact of pioneering women. These women have broken down traditional barriers and overcome preconceived notions to become agents of change. This transformation celebrates diversity, innovation, and the amalgamation of different perspectives.
Looking ahead, there are exciting prospects with initiatives that promote diversity and create an environment where every technology enthusiast can thrive. The industry is evolving into a hub of ideas and experiences, fostering a tech environment where creativity can flourish. The collective journey is about redefining the industry’s narrative and creating an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute to the ever-evolving world of technology.
As we celebrate International Women’s Month, I invite you to join me in amplifying the voices of inspiring women in tech. Follow my Medium blog (debralawal.medium.com) for the latest and greatest in tech, particularly the transformative impact of AI. Hit the clap icon to show your support and you can share their stories to inspire others.
