A non-governmental organisation, Skyewise Foundation, has highlighted the importance of digital skills in strengthening women’s economic power and leadership, noting that technology-driven competencies such as cybersecurity can open new opportunities for women in the global workforce.
The organisation made this known during the Skills4Her conference held on Saturday in Abuja to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026.
Speaking at the conference, Elvis Abuyere, President of Skyewise Group, said empowering women with digital skills remains a strategic step toward innovation and sustainable economic growth.
Abuyere, who was represented by Stephanie Odia, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, noted that the foundation was committed to providing platforms that enable women to build relevant skills and take up leadership roles across industries.
He explained that empowering women should be seen not only as a social responsibility but also as an investment in long-term development and innovation.
According to him, creating opportunities for women to acquire skills, lead initiatives, and participate in decision-making processes can produce lasting impacts across workplaces, businesses and communities.
The conference, he added, was designed to provide a space for dialogue, knowledge sharing and networking among women seeking to expand their influence in leadership, entrepreneurship and economic participation.
Uchenna Akurunwa, Head of Skyewise Foundation, said the initiative was aimed at advancing women’s rights and economic empowerment through skills development.
She explained that the organisation is particularly focused on equipping women with digital capabilities that can enable them to explore career opportunities in cybersecurity and other technology-driven sectors.
Akurunwa noted that cybersecurity has become one of the most sought-after skills globally, creating opportunities for individuals to work with international organisations and access competitive jobs within the digital economy.
She added that the foundation plans to host an entrepreneurship and mentorship symposium in April to support participants with guidance on business development and grant application processes.
Also speaking at the event, Sophie Akpa, a cybersecurity facilitator at TerraSkills, said technology provides a platform for women to create innovative solutions and contribute meaningfully to digital transformation.
Akpa explained that exposure to training programmes, mentorship and discussions such as the Skills4Her conference could encourage more women to consider careers in technology and digital security.
She added that women’s perspectives are important in building inclusive digital systems and solutions that reflect the needs of diverse communities.
Maureen Esekhile, an automation specialist at Einao Solutions, challenged the perception that women remain largely underrepresented in the technology sector.
She noted that many women have made significant contributions to technological development but often do not receive adequate visibility.
Esekhile, who has spent over 15 years in the industry, said women are increasingly taking up roles in technology and performing strongly in the field.
She, however, urged more women to step forward, showcase their achievements and take advantage of opportunities within the technology space rather than remaining on the sidelines.
The event brought together professionals, technology experts and women advocates to discuss pathways for expanding women’s participation in the digital economy.
