The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has stressed the critical need for greater female participation in science and engineering.
He stated this at the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer Delta 2 Programme award ceremony held in Abuja on Tuesday.
The event celebrated innovative projects by young female engineers and coincided with the International Day of the Girl Child.
During his speech, Nnaji highlighted the impressive projects showcased by young girls, remarking, “Our approach focuses on reaching them at a young age. You can imagine, we’re talking about JSS1 and JSS2 students doing these fantastic projects. This is basic science, and that’s what we mean—when you teach them the sciences, the technology will follow.”
He reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering women in STEM fields, stating, “We want more women involved. In politics, we often say that when we have resources to support families, we prioritise women over men.”
Nnaji praised the innovative mindsets of the young participants, noting, “It’s impressive to see them generating methane using petrol mixed with water and camphor. Isn’t that fantastic? These young individuals have such innovative mindsets.”
The minister emphasised initiatives of the Renewed Hope Agenda led by President Bola Tinubu aimed at fostering talent among young girls, explaining, “By nurturing these talents early, we can transform Nigeria by the time they come of age.”
He affirmed the government’s goal of translating students’ projects into market-ready products, underlining the importance of refining ideas through exhibitions.
The event also served to underscore the significance of women’s contributions in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
The Coordinating Director of Planning and Business Development at NASENI, Dr Nonyem Onyechi, underscored the need for a strong connection between research and industry.
“The answer lies in the lack of a link between our research institutes and industry needs. As long as that linkage is absent, we cannot effectively use technology to develop our country,” Onyechi explained.
Onyechi highlighted the Delta 2 programme as a key effort to sponsor innovative ideas from young female engineers, aiming to close the gender gap in technology and engineering.
The Chairman of the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer, Dr Dahiru Muhammed, addressed the critical gender imbalance in engineering and technology fields.
He remarked, “Today, we not only celebrate innovation and excellence but also challenge the long-standing narrative surrounding engineering and technology in Nigeria.”
Muhammed also noted the significance of the Delta Hub initiative, launched in March 2024, which aims to provide tools and support for young women to thrive in these traditionally male-dominated domains.
Nnaji concluded with a strong message for women hesitant to enter engineering: “We’ve always encouraged women to engage in STEM fields. In our society, we value women highly. We recognise that they are serious-minded individuals, and we commend their contributions.”
