Promoting Gender Equity and Empowering Girls in Nigeria

Oluwayemisi Efunnuga at the Women's Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC)

I have always believed that every girl deserves the chance to learn, dream, and succeed. This belief has guided my work in promoting gender equity, women’s empowerment, and inclusive education work that has shaped not only my journey but also the lives of many young women in Nigeria.

My experience with the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC) gave me the opportunity to support girls in building both digital and leadership skills. Many of the girls who joined our programs began their journeys with uncertainty, often believing that technology was “not for them.” But with encouragement and hands-on learning, they discovered their potential. I watched quiet voices grow confident and hesitant steps turn into bold strides. These moments reminded me that when girls are given the right tools, they can thrive in STEM fields and step into leadership with courage.

Beyond technology, I also worked with the Nigerian Girl Guides Association, where I managed programs that created safe and inclusive learning environments for girls. Through mentorship, leadership training, and empowerment sessions, we helped them find confidence to lead and courage to take action. My dedication was honoured with a Service Award, a humbling reminder that there is still more work to be done.

Oluwayemisi Efunnuga's Girl Guiding in Nigeria Service Award

Each day is a step closer, and every decision executed with purpose brings us nearer to unlocking new potential in a girl, allowing her to shine even brighter. This is why I am deeply committed to the pursuit of Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 5 (Gender Equality) of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These goals are not just global targets; they represent real opportunities for girls in underserved communities who are eager to learn, grow, and become leaders of change.

For me, the mission is clear: to continue breaking barriers and creating opportunities for girls and women in Nigeria and beyond.Creating a world where girls have equal access to education, leadership, and opportunities requires partnerships, shared ideas, and collective action.

I am open to collaborating with organisations, educators, change makers, and communities who share this vision of gender equity and inclusive education, where we can amplify impact and empower more girls.

About the Author

Oluwayemisi Efunnuga is a social impact strategist with a background in Urban and Regional Planning. She has nearly ten years of experience using research, data, and geospatial technology to design, measure, and scale solutions that improve the lives of women, youth, and underserved communities in Nigeria and beyond.