In recent years, Nigeria has become a global hub for technological innovation, witnessing a surge in startups. Despite the historical male dominance in the tech industry, a dynamic cohort of Nigerian women is shaping and influencing tech startups, propelling Nigeria’s tech ecosystem onto the international stage.
Pioneering Figures
The journey of Nigerian women in tech entrepreneurship traces back to the early days of the digital revolution, with Funke Opeke, the visionary founder and CEO of MainOne, standing out as a key figure. Her strategic foresight played a pivotal role in establishing robust telecommunications infrastructure, a foundational element crucial for supporting the growth of startups today. Additionally, Yasmin Belo-Osagie and Afua Osei, the co-founders of She Leads Africa, have made significant contributions by fostering a supportive community for young African women entrepreneurs, offering essential resources, mentorship, and valuable opportunities.
Tech Innovation and Education
Nigerian women are leaving a substantial impact on the tech startup landscape through their contributions to innovation and education. Rebecca Enonchong, the trailblazing founder of AppsTech, is a notable figure in the fintech space, providing essential enterprise solutions across Africa and actively contributing to economic growth. Simultaneously, a remarkable surge is witnessed in women taking the lead in tech startups and engaging in venture capital and angel investing. Omobola Johnson, a former Minister of Communication Technology in Nigeria, has seamlessly transitioned into a leading investor, playing an active role in shaping the future of Nigerian tech through strategic investments. Another notable figure, Adia Sowho, in her role as Managing Director of Nigerian operations at Helios Towers, has been a driving force, contributing significantly to critical infrastructure that supports the expansion of various tech startups.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite remarkable success, these women face challenges such as gender bias, limited access to funding, and societal expectations. However, their resilience serves as inspiration for the upcoming generation.
Women Currently Influencing the Nigerian Tech Landscape
Within the vibrant and dynamic tech ecosystem of Nigeria, these are some of the remarkable women picked from the rich pool outstanding players, driving innovation and shaping the trajectory of the country’s tech start-ups. Their impactful contributions span various sectors, showcasing the diverse and influential roles women play in the Nigerian tech narrative.
Bilikiss Adebiyi-Abiola – Wecyclers
As the Founder and CEO of Wecyclers, Bilikiss Adebiyi-Abiola tackles environmental challenges through innovative waste management and recycling solutions. Her tech-driven approach not only addresses sustainability issues but also creates economic opportunities within local communities.
Juliet Anammah – Jumia Nigeria:
Juliet Anammah, Chairwoman of Jumia Nigeria, goes beyond her role by actively supporting initiatives that empower women in the tech industry. Her advocacy for e-commerce and technological advancement contributes to shaping a more inclusive tech landscape.
Chioma Ifeanyi-Eze – AccountingHub:
Chioma Ifeanyi-Eze, the Founder of AccountingHub, is revolutionizing accounting practices through technology. Her company provides innovative solutions, contributing significantly to the digital transformation of financial processes in Nigeria.
Maya Horgan Famodu – Ingressive Capital:
Maya Horgan Famodu, as the founder of Ingressive Capital, plays a pivotal role in the investment landscape. Focusing on early-stage investments in African tech start-ups, she contributes to fostering innovation and growth within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Funke Opeke – MainOne Cable Company:
Funke Opeke is a trailblazer as the Founder and CEO of MainOne Cable Company. Her contributions in providing connectivity solutions have been instrumental in advancing digital infrastructure in Nigeria, laying the groundwork for widespread technological development.
Odunayo Eweniyi – PiggyVest:
Odunayo Eweniyi, Co-founder of PiggyVest, has redefined savings and investment in Nigeria through her fintech platform. Her entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach have positioned PiggyVest as a prominent player in the financial technology space.
Nkem Okocha – Mamamoni:
Nkem Okocha, the Founder of Mamamoni, focuses on empowering low-income women through financial inclusion. Her work showcases how technology can be harnessed for social impact and economic empowerment, contributing to a more inclusive financial landscape.
Omobola Johnson – TLcom Capital:
Former Minister turned Senior Partner at TLcom Capital, Omobola Johnson’s strategic insights contribute to fostering technological innovation and growth. Her transition to a leading investor reflects a commitment to shaping the future of Nigerian tech through strategic investments.
Ire Aderinokun – BuyCoins Africa:
Ire Aderinokun, Co-founder of BuyCoins Africa, is a key player in the cryptocurrency exchange platform. Her contributions to the fintech space, particularly in the crypto sector, demonstrate the evolving role of women in shaping the future of finance and technology.
IfeDurosinmi Etti – Herconomy:
IfeDurosinmi Etti, through Herconomy, makes a significant impact in the tech landscape. Her dedication contributes to empowering women and fostering a community that promotes diversity and inclusion in technology-driven initiatives.
Tomilola Makekodunmi – Bankly:
Tomilola Makekodunmi, as a driving force behind Bankly, plays a crucial role in revolutionizing financial services in Nigeria. Her work focuses on providing accessible and secure financial solutions, especially for the unbanked population.
Oluwastosin Olasiende – Ladda:
Oluwastosin Olasiende, in her role at Ladda, is at the forefront of leveraging technology for sustainable agriculture. Her innovative solutions contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector, addressing crucial challenges and promoting food security.
Solape Akinpelu – Hervest:
Solape Akinpelu, through Hervest, is making strides in agri-tech. Her contributions to leveraging technology for sustainable farming practices showcase a commitment to addressing food-related challenges and fostering innovation in agriculture.
Impact on the Tech Ecosystem
In the dynamic world of technology, Nigerian women are making their mark, driving positive change, and shaping the future of technology in Nigeria. As pioneers in the tech space, they have overcome challenges and established themselves as notable trailblazers, actively contributing to the growth and development of the Nigerian tech ecosystem. Their impact extends beyond individual achievements, encompassing mentoring, advocacy, and inspiration for the next generation. Nigerian women are not only playing a transformative role but also inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs, and leaving an indelible mark on the global tech landscape.
