Lagos: The Lagos State Government has called for sustained investment in digital infrastructure, education, and skills development to ensure inclusive growth and broaden participation in the nation’s digital economy. The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, made the call on Thursday while receiving the Public Sector Technology and Engineering Leader of the Year Award at the Women in Technology and Engineering Summit Africa (WITESA) 5.0 in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Hamzat, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Mrs. Bolanle Olukareh, highlighted the rapid transformation of economies and societies through technology, emphasizing the need for its benefits to be accessible to all. He noted that while Lagos had made significant strides in innovation, broadband expansion, startup support, and technology adoption, many communities still remain excluded from emerging digital opportunities.
Hamzat pointed out challenges such as inadequate internet connectivity, unreliable electricity supply, low digital literacy, and affordability constraints that continue to hinder participation in the digital economy. ‘Bridging the digital divide requires collective action from government, the private sector, educational institutions, and civil society organisations,’ he said. He urged stakeholders to increase investments in broadband infrastructure, digital education, and skills acquisition, particularly for women, youths, small businesses, and underserved communities.
The deputy governor underscored that no citizen should be denied access to digital opportunities because of location, age, gender, or economic circumstances. He added that Lagos had demonstrated that inclusive growth could be driven through strategic investments in technology hubs, digital education, healthcare innovation, and broadband infrastructure.
The summit also honored individuals and organizations advancing women’s participation and excellence in technology, engineering, and cybersecurity across Africa. Receiving the Cybersecurity Excellence Award on behalf of CyberSafe Foundation Founder, Confidence Staveley, Ms. Ditiem Tawo described the recognition as a testament to the growing influence of women in the cybersecurity space. She encouraged young women aspiring to careers in technology to remain focused, build relevant skills, and pursue opportunities with confidence.
Additionally, Women in Tech Mentor of the Year award recipient, Nkemdilim Uwaje-Begho, emphasized her commitment to mentoring young innovators and entrepreneurs. She noted that technology remains a critical driver of socio-economic development and called for greater female participation across the sector. According to her, mentorship programs provide emerging entrepreneurs with practical knowledge, industry exposure, and strategies needed to grow sustainable businesses.
President of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Dr. Chinyere Igwegbe, stated that the organization had spent more than three decades promoting STEM education among girls. She described the award presented to the association as an encouragement to deepen grassroots advocacy and inspire more girls to become innovators and problem-solvers.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that other award recipients included Dr. Vincent Olatunji, who received the Male Ally for Women in Technology Award. Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, was honored with the Research Excellence Award, alongside other distinguished technology leaders. NAN also reports that WITESA is one of Africa’s leading technology and engineering platforms celebrating women’s achievements, leadership, and contributions to STEM development.