THE CENTRE for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has called for increased participation of girls in the digital space.
The Executive Director of CITAD, Mr Yunusa Zakari-Ya’u, made the call on Thursday in Kano while commemorating the International Girls in ICT Day 2026.
Zakari-Ya’u, who was represented by Mr John Otaro, the CITAD Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, said the event was aimed at empowering young girls with digital knowledge and skills.
He stressed the need for inclusiveness in technology, noting that girls must take advantage of opportunities in the digital world.
“Technology is for everyone. We encourage young girls to actively participate, build confidence, ask questions, and explore opportunities beyond the classroom,” he said.
The programme featured panel discussions led by Engr. Naja’atu Kabir-Mustapha of the Kano State Information Technology Development Agency and Hasana Ibrahim-Balarebe, a digital marketing executive.
The speakers shared their personal journeys into the tech industry, identifying challenges such as lack of mentorship, low self-esteem and limited support systems as major barriers facing girls.
They, however, encouraged participants to remain determined.
“You must seek mentorship, build confidence and take advantage of the many opportunities available in the ICT space,” a panelist advised.
On bridging the gender digital divide, the speakers noted that although several initiatives exist, success depends largely on the willingness of girls to take bold steps.
Earlier, the event coordinator and Agenda-WINNIG Project Lead, Hajiya Fatima Babakura, said the celebration formed part of CITAD’s broader efforts to address the gender digital divide and improve opportunities for women in Northern Nigeria.
According to her, the initiative includes digital literacy training and support for students preparing for computer-based examinations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme brought together students, teachers and technology experts to deliberate on the theme, “Girls in ICT: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Way Forward.”
A digital skills demonstration session was conducted, where participants were introduced to basic digital tools, the use of smartphones for learning and business, as well as strategies for staying safe online. (NAN)
