The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed on February 11th, highlights the indispensable role of women in STEM and the urgent need for greater inclusivity in science and technology. This annual event serves as a platform to celebrate the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) while also addressing the systemic barriers that limit their access, advancement, and leadership opportunities in these fields.
By amplifying the voices of women in STEM, fostering mentorship and education initiatives, and advocating for gender-inclusive policies, this observance plays a crucial role in shaping a future where women and girls have equal opportunities to innovate, lead, and transform the world through science and technology.
The Gender Gap in STEM: A Nigerian Perspective
Despite efforts to promote gender equality in STEM, Nigerian women remain significantly underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Understanding this disparity requires a comparison between the number of women in STEM and their overall representation in the country’s population. With a population exceeding 200 million, women make up nearly 49% of Nigeria’s total demographic. (Source: cdn.prod.website-files.com)
🔹 Only 22% of engineering and technology graduates in Nigeria are women (Vanguard, 2023).
🔹 Just 3% of researchers in Nigeria are women, highlighting a significant gap in scientific leadership.
🔹 In sub-Saharan Africa, women account for less than 20% of professionals in engineering and technology-related fields (World Economic Forum, 2022).
🔹 Cultural norms, stereotypes, and lack of mentorship continue to discourage young girls from pursuing careers in STEM (UN Women).
These statistics highlight a critical gender gap that limits Nigeria’s potential for innovation and sustainable development. Encouraging more women to pursue careers in STEM is not just about gender equality—it’s about ensuring a future where diverse perspectives drive technological and scientific breakthroughs.
Trailblazing Nigerian Women in STEM
From climate change mitigation to renewable energy development, women are driving groundbreaking solutions that are transforming industries and safeguarding our planet. As we celebrate this year’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science, it is essential to spotlight trailblazing Nigerian women who are making significant strides in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
These women are not only pushing boundaries in science and technology but also redefining how innovation can be harnessed for environmental conservation, sustainable energy, and technological advancements that benefit societies worldwide.
1. Dr. Eucharia Oluchi Nwaichi – A biochemist and environmental scientist focused on soil decontamination and waste management, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations.
2. Dr. Ozak Esu – An electrical engineer committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions and promoting the inclusion of women in engineering.
3. Dr. Amy Jadesimi – A medical doctor and business leader, spearheading sustainable industrialization through her work at LADOL, one of Nigeria’s largest industrial free zones.
These remarkable women, along with many others, continue to challenge stereotypes, break barriers, and drive change in their respective STEM fields.
Despite these achievements, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields in Nigeria. To bridge this gap, we must:
✅ Encourage STEM education for girls through scholarships and mentorship.
✅ Create more opportunities for women in STEM leadership roles.
✅ Challenge gender stereotypes by showcasing successful female STEM professionals.
✅ Invest in policies that promote gender diversity in research and innovation.
The future of STEM in Nigeria depends on harnessing the talents of both men and women. By breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity, we can drive sustainable progress and innovation in Nigeria.
💬 Which Nigerian women in STEM inspire you? Let’s celebrate them in the comments!
