Female engineers have expressed dismay over the low inclusivity of women and girl-child in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) field.

The engineers under the auspices of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) called on the women and girl-child to get involved in the digital revolution that is transforming learning, working, communicating and solving problems.

The body observed that regular access to computers is a signal that they must bridge the digital gender divide and equip themselves with the skills to lead in the era of rapid technological advancement.

Speaking at International Day of Girls in ICT 2025 in Abuja, themed: “Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation,”APWEN President, Adebisi Osim, emphasised that true transformation in the field of science and technology must be inclusive, and involve every girl, regardless of background, location, or economic status.

Osim said, “As engineers, we know that innovation thrives on diversity. When girls are given equal opportunities to engage with digital technologies, the solutions they create are more comprehensive, more creative, and more impactful.”

She said APWEN has taken bold steps to promote ICT education among girls through mentorship programmes, school outreaches, competitions and capacity-building initiatives.

The President of the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), Margaret Oguntala, said the world is increasingly driven by technology; proficiency in ICT is no longer a luxury but a necessity. So, all hands must be on deck towards helping women and girls achieve it.

She, therefore, called on the governments to take the lead in the realm of education, particularly in STEM programmes, to enable schoolgirls to build a solid foundation.

The key speaker, former APWEN president, Valerie Agberagba, expressed delight over the way girls are beginning to embrace science and technology, saying, “We eagerly look forward to the insightful perspectives and invaluable knowledge you will share with our young aspiring engineers.”

She paid tribute to the past president of APWEN, Funmilola Ojelade, whose legacy in engineering, leadership, and girl-child empowerment continues to inspire the association.

Agberagba urged the government, institutions, and stakeholders to support inclusive ICT policies, invest in digital infrastructure, and make digital literacy accessible to girls across the country. “Let us join hands to shape a future where girls are not just users of technology but creators of it. Together, we can build a Nigeria.”