As the world marks the 2025 International Girls in ICT Day, the United Nations is sounding a powerful call: empower girls and young women not just to join the digital economy—but to lead it. With a bold vision for inclusive tech leadership, this year’s global theme is centered on dismantling barriers and unlocking the leadership potential of girls in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Speaking ahead of the global commemoration, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Doreen Bogdan-Martin, painted a picture of a future where girls and women are not sidelined but are central to digital progress. She emphasized that real empowerment goes beyond access—it means visibility, opportunity, and leadership.
“In practice, this might mean a young woman in a rural community accessing vital government services online rather than walking miles to an office. It’s a visually impaired girl gaining a full education in STEM, or finding meaningful employment in science and technology,” Bogdan-Martin explained.
The impact of mobile money alone, she noted, has lifted millions out of poverty, with women-led households reaping some of the most significant benefits. Experts believe that closing the mobile internet gender gap in low- and middle-income countries could inject over $1 trillion into the global economy.
To ensure no woman or girl is left behind, the ITU has launched major initiatives, including the EQUALS Global Partnership, now aiming to equip 100 million women and girls with digital skills by 2035. Another flagship project, the AI Skills Coalition, unites global tech giants and academic institutions to deliver free, customized artificial intelligence training.
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The ITU’s annual Facts and Figures report further supports governments in identifying and addressing gender disparities in ICT access and use. “We cannot manage what we do not measure,” said Bogdan-Martin, stressing that while data is crucial, it is leadership, investment, and deliberate inclusion that will truly drive change.
In Nigeria, the message resonates deeply. Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, joined voices in highlighting the transformative power of female participation in tech. Reflecting on the day’s significance, he celebrated the resilience and potential of Nigerian girls and women who are stepping up to reshape the nation’s digital future.
“Girls who dare to dream, learn, and lead in tech are redefining what’s possible,” Dr. Tijani said. “I firmly believe that when girls fully participate, nations rise with them. Let us continue to break barriers, amplify voices, and make sure every girl knows she belongs in this digital economy.”
As the world looks ahead, the 2025 International Girls in ICT Day serves not only as a celebration but as a rallying cry—to build a more inclusive, innovative future led by women and girls determined to make their mark in technology.
