Nigerian women are making significant strides in STEM, says minister

Every February 11 marks International Day of Women and Girls in Science. To commemorate this day, the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has praised the resilience of women and girls doing exploits in science and technology, assuring that the federal government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will continue to promote and provide mentorship and support, for Nigerian women.

The minister emphasised the critical role women and girls play in driving innovation and progress in science and technology, adding that despite facing numerous barriers, women and girls in Nigeria are making significant strides in STEM fields, noting that it is a collective responsibility to support and encourage them.

“This year’s theme, “Inclusive Green Growth for Gender Equality”, resonates deeply with our Ministry’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls in Nigeria.

“As we commemorate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, join the global community in celebrating the achievements of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

“As we mark this important day, I want to emphasize the critical role that women and girls play in driving innovation and progress in science and technology. Despite facing numerous barriers, women and girls in Nigeria are making significant strides in STEM fields, and it is our collective responsibility to support and encourage them.

“As a Ministry, we are committed to creating an enabling environment that fosters the participation of women and girls in science and technology. We are working tirelessly to promote STEM education, provide mentorship opportunities, and support research and innovation initiatives that benefit women and girls.

She added, “I call on all stakeholders, including governments, private sector organisations, civil society groups, and individuals, to join us in promoting the participation of women and girls in science and technology.

Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society where women and girls have equal opportunities to pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions to the scientific community.”