Some women and youths across 10 northern states of Nigeria have taken part in a digital skills training programme organised by the Niger Delta Initiative in collaboration with Women Our Voice Our Votes. The Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Initiative, Dr Akpoguma Okuoimose, disclosed this during a two-day engagement with journalists while highlighting progress recorded in the participating states.
Dr Okuoimose said the Niger Delta Initiative, working with STEM Africa and WOVOV Venture, officially kicked off a digital skills training programme designed to equip young women with relevant technological competencies. She explained that the initiative was created to help participants access future opportunities in the digital economy by building their capacity in practical and emerging tech areas.
She reaffirmed her commitment to expanding access to quality digital education for young women, noting that providing them with hands-on technical skills is vital for creating an inclusive and economically stronger society. According to her, improving the digital readiness of young women contributes directly to building resilience and supporting long-term growth across communities.
During Day 2 of the training activities in Kaduna State, Dr Okuoimose reported an impressive turnout of young women who gathered at approved training centres to deepen their knowledge of essential technology tools. She said the participants, who were in high spirits, took part in hands-on sessions led by experienced trainers across different centres.
She explained that the programme, which is a joint initiative of the Niger Delta Initiative, STEM Africa, and WOVOV Venture, continued to provide participants with foundational digital literacy needed to thrive in today’s tech-driven environment. She maintained her unwavering commitment to ensuring inclusive and accessible digital education in northern Nigeria.
The organisation also launched its digital skills training sessions in several centres across Gombe State, where young women began their learning journey with enthusiasm. Dr Okuoimose noted that these participants would gain essential technological skills that could position them for opportunities within the fast-growing digital sector.
She added that her dedication to widening digital access for young women is not just tied to a single project. According to her, “it is a transformative mission.” She stressed that empowering women with in-demand tech skills promotes inclusivity and strengthens the economic foundation of communities across the country.
The initiative also expanded into Kebbi State, where multiple training centres came alive as participants started their introduction to technology. Dr Okuoimose said the learners were being equipped with tools and competencies that would help define their place in the emerging digital economy. She stated, “Expanding digital access for young women which is my unwavering vision is not just a programme goal but a transformative mission that equips young women with real, applicable tech skills to help foster a more inclusive society and strengthen the economic fabrics of communities across the country.”
