“Digital Empowerment for Women, A Step Towards Bridging the Gender Gap in Bayelsa-,NCC

Elizabeth Vincent, Yenagoa

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called on women to increase their participation in telecommunications through improved access and utilization of digital technologies.

This appeal was made during a one-day workshop on gender sensitization in telecommunications issues, held in partnership with the Ministry of Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment, and Social Development in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Engineer Chris Agha, Zonal Controller, South-South Zone, NCC, represented by Mr. Ayo Aikheo, highlighted the digital gender gap and the need for women to overcome barriers to connectivity.

He emphasized the importance of digital literacy and entrepreneurship among women.

Recent studies show that women face cultural, social, and financial barriers in using telecommunications, limiting their access to education, employment, and social participation.

Agha urged stakeholders, including government agencies, telecom operators, educators, and community leaders, to collaborate in supporting women’s access to telecommunications.

Mrs. Juliet Ekwueme, Zonal Head, Compliance and Monitoring, NCC, spoke on “Empowering Women through Telecommunications,” emphasizing the need for women to acquire skills in using smartphones and navigating the internet safely and effectively.

These skills are essential for personal development and economic empowerment.

The NCC is actively involved in promoting cyber security measures to protect women from online harassment and digital violence. Lady Eunice Nnachi, CEO of ENWAF, encouraged women to utilize internet opportunities to improve their lives. She appreciated the NCC for organizing the program, which would engage more women in digital activities.

Mrs. Grace Orumieyefa, Chairperson, Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Bayelsa State, encouraged women to seek knowledge using the internet and utilize telecommunications to make work easier.

Notable personalities present included representatives from the Gender Response Initiative Team, International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), and other women groups in the state.