In a world where technology’s influence is expanding at an unprecedented pace, some Nigerian women are defying convention and reshaping the landscape of the tech industry. From software engineering and artificial intelligence to entrepreneurship and cybersecurity, these women are pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and reshaping the narrative of what it means to be a tech leader.
In this article, we proudly present a list of 10 Nigerian women in the tech world. Their stories of determination, resilience, and creativity offer inspiration to aspiring technologists both within the country and beyond its borders.
Funke Opeke
She stands out as a prominent businesswoman and trailblazing technology entrepreneur. In 2010, Funke Opeke founded MainOne Communications with a bold vision to address the glaring inadequacy of internet connectivity in West Africa. The company has been at the forefront of providing broadband and data services, distinguished by its strategic investment in building submarine fiber optic cables that effectively amplify internet access.
The company’s strategically positioned data centers provide essential support for cloud services and disaster recovery, further bolstering the region’s digital economy. Funke’s dynamic leadership has garnered well-deserved recognition and awards, positioning her as a role model for women in technology.
Beyond her corporate accomplishments, she is also an advocate for policy changes within the tech realm.
Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho
She is the founder and Managing Director of Future Software Resources, Ltd. Her company specialises in software solutions, digital marketing, and training.
Nkem’s journey is one of resilience and visionary leadership. She has spearheaded initiatives that bridge the gap between technology and people. She serves as an advocate for women in technology, championing diversity and inclusion.
Her role as a mentor and speaker at numerous tech events underscores her commitment to nurturing the next generation of tech enthusiasts.
Her service has earned her several accolades. Nkem is an instrumental member of the board of Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, where her strategic insights contribute to the company’s growth. Additionally, she holds a pivotal position on the board of the Society for Corporate Governance in Nigeria, where she spearheads the Digital and Innovation Committee, leading initiatives that shape the future of corporate governance in the digital age.
As a vital member of the Nigerian National IT Software Committee and the Nigerian Electronic Voting Think Tank, she actively contributes her expertise to advance digitalization and formulate policies that foster inclusivity.
Nkemdilim boasts an array of prestigious recognitions, including being honoured as an Obama African Leader. She has also secured a coveted spot among Forbes’s Top Ten Female Tech Founders in Africa and has been celebrated as one of Global Digital Women’s Top 10 Most Inspiring Women in Africa. Her excellence further extends to being part of Lionesses of Africa’s esteemed top 100 Women and securing a spot on Ventures Africa’s list of the 42 Most Innovative Africans.
Dr Olamide Brown
She is an esteemed British-Nigerian medical doctor and healthcare entrepreneur. Renowned as the founder of the Flying Doctors Healthcare Investment Group and a director of Greentree Investment Company, her impact has transformed the healthcare and investment landscapes.
She attended Hull York Medical School, before proceeding to Tokyo on a Japanese MEXT scholarship, where she conducted groundbreaking research with induced pluripotent stem cells. Driven to address medical gaps, she founded Flying Doctors Nigeria Ltd., pioneering air-operated emergency medical services in West Africa. During COVID-19, Brown’s FDHIC team launched a groundbreaking COVID-19 mobile testing booth, epitomising her commitment to innovation.
Her exceptional contributions have garnered numerous honours, including recognition as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, Forbes 20 Young Power Women in Africa 2013, Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 for 2015, and more.
Notably, she received the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) national honour from President Muhammadu Buhari. Her accomplishments continue to shine on a global stage, and in 2023, she was featured in the African Folder Female Founders You Should Know list.
Bilikiss Adebiyi Abiola
She is an exceptional entrepreneur, environmentalist, and technology innovator who has garnered recognition for her innovative initiatives that blend technology and sustainability to address critical environmental challenges.
As the founder of Wecyclers, she has harnessed the power of technology to revolutionise waste management in Nigeria. Through a mobile-based platform, she pioneered a system that incentivizes low-income communities to recycle their waste by offering rewards. This not only promotes environmental sustainability but also provides economic opportunities for marginalised communities.
Wecyclers’ impact extends beyond waste management, as it contributes to reducing pollution, improving sanitation, and fostering a cleaner, healthier environment in urban areas.
She was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. She was honoured as an Echoing Green Fellow, and also received the Cartier Women’s Initiative Award.
Dr Lola Masha
With a background in engineering from the University of Virginia and a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the UC Berkeley College of Engineering, Lola’s academic prowess laid the foundation for her remarkable career.
Her journey unfolded with a stint at McKinsey & Company, where she cultivated her skills as a consultant. She then ventured into Google Nigeria, where she spearheaded the business development team for four years.
In 2014, she took on the role of country manager at OLX, a leading e-commerce platform. Rising through the ranks, she now serves as both the Chief Executive Officer and Country Manager for OLX in Nigeria.
Lola is also the co-founder of Babban Gona Farmers Service Limited. As the Executive Director for Corporate Services, she continues to drive technological innovation to uplift farmers and revolutionise Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Dr. Ibukun Awosika
She is a remarkable figure whose accomplishments span across diverse fields, including technology. With an astute leadership style, Mrs. Awosika served as the Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria.
Under her guidance, the bank championed digital transformation, and introduced cutting-edge solutions that streamline banking operations.
Beyond the banking sector, Mrs. Awosika’s involvement in technology showcases her dedication to digital literacy and entrepreneurship. She passionately advocates for leveraging technology as a catalyst for economic growth, particularly by empowering youth and women.
She is the founder and CEO of The Chair Centre Group, an organisation that exemplifies the integration of technology across various business dimensions.
In acknowledgment of her diverse and impactful endeavours, Mrs. Awosika has achieved a multitude of esteemed accolades, which include:
• Forbes Woman Africa Chairperson Award
• Forbes Best of Africa Award
• International Women Entrepreneurial Challenge Foundation Award
• This Day Awards for Excellence – Women in Business Category
• Women in Management and Business (WIMBIZ) Entrepreneurial Excellence Award
• Institute of Directors Nigeria (IOD) Fellowship
• Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) Lifetime Achievement Award for Corporate Governance
Her remarkable legacy stands as a wellspring of motivation for emerging technology leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Oreoluwa Somolu Lesi
She is an inspiring technologist, educator, and entrepreneur who has a passion for empowering youth and driving positive change through digital innovation. As the founder of the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC), Oreoluwa has dedicated herself to bridging the gender gap in technology.
Through innovative programmes and initiatives, she equips women and girls with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the digital world. Her commitment to fostering digital literacy and empowering women aligns with the broader goals of promoting gender equality and inclusive development.
Oreoluwa has been a pivotal advocate for incorporating technology into education. Her work with W.TEC and other educational initiatives reflects her dedication to shaping the next generation of tech-savvy leaders.
Some of her accolades include being selected as an Obama Foundation African Leader and being named in the BBC’s list of 100 inspiring and influential women in the world.
Adepeju Jaiyeoba
As the founder of the Brown Button Foundation and Mother’s Delivery Kit, Adepeju has leveraged technology to address critical maternal and child health challenges in Nigeria. She designed a mobile platform that connects expectant mothers with healthcare services, information, and essential supplies, significantly improving maternal health outcomes.
This fusion of technology and healthcare has not only saved lives but has also paved the way for a more connected and informed society.
Her commitment to harnessing technology for social impact extends to her advocacy for women’s economic empowerment. She founded the “Empowering Women in Tech” initiative, which seeks to provide women with the skills and knowledge to excel in the tech industry.
Due to her remarkable contributions, she won the prestigious Rolex Award for Enterprise. She was named one of the BBC’s 100 Women in 2020. She is also a Mandela Washington Fellow and a Global Good Fund Fellow, further showcasing her global impact as a change-maker.
Odunayo Eweniyi
She is a prominent business executive and activist. Her pursuit of innovation began with the launch of Push CV shortly after graduation, followed by the co-founding of PiggyVest in 2016. This venture marked a pivotal step in revolutionising financial technology.
As the Co-founder and Chief Operations Officer of PiggyVest, she has significantly shaped the financial technology landscape in Nigeria. Simultaneously, Eweniyi’s impactful involvement in the Feminist Coalition underscores her commitment to driving positive societal change.
Her contributions extend beyond entrepreneurship. During the 2020 End SARS protests against Nigerian police brutality, her team raised funds for medical care and legal support for victims. This dedication to social change earned her recognition on platforms such as Bloomberg 50 in 2020 and Time Next 100 list in 2021. Her achievements also encompassed winning the Forbes Woman Africa Technology and Innovation Award in 2022.
Toun Tunde-Anjous
As the founder of The People Practice, Toun has established herself as a respected figure in the tech industry. Her company focuses on providing strategic human resources solutions for tech-driven organisations, helping them to optimise their workforce and build strong, diverse teams.
She is a co-founder of Leading Ladies Africa, an organisation that empowers African women to achieve their fullest potential in various fields, including technology. Through initiatives like TechHer and Tech Amazons, she has created platforms that amplify the voices of women in tech, inspiring a new generation of female leaders.
Due to her commitment to empowering women in technology, she was named in the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list. She also received the African Achievers Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to women’s empowerment and leadership in technology.
Her initiatives not only foster gender equality but also highlight the importance of human resources in the tech industry. Her leadership and advocacy continue to inspire individuals to embrace technology as a tool for empowerment and transformation.
Conclusion
While the tech sector has long been dominated by male voices, Iya Magazine has just shown you some examples of women who are proving that gender is no obstacle to success in a field that demands creativity, determination, and unyielding curiosity.
