IWD 2026: Skyewise Affirms Support For Women In Tech

Skyewise Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding women’s participation in technology, highlightingdigital skills such as cybersecurity as a pathway to economic empowerment and leadership.

The commitment was reiterated at the Skills4Her International Women’s Day conference held in Abuja on Friday to mark International Women’s Day 2026. Themed, “Give Skills, Gain Influence: Women’s Rights & Economic Leadership,” the event featured discussions on cyber security training, business growth, financial empowerment and women’s role in economic and civic leadership.

Speaking at the event, President of the Skyewise Group, Dr Elvis Abuyere who was represented by the Chief Operating Officer of the company, Stephanie Odia, stated that the organisation sees women’s empowerment as a strategic investment in innovation and sustainable growth.

Abuyere said the foundation remains committed to creating platforms that enable women to develop skills, contribute to industries and participate more actively in economic and leadership spaces.

“And of course, at Skyewise Group, we believe that empowering a woman is not just a social responsibility. It is a strategic investment in innovation, leadership and sustainable growth. And when women are given the platform to develop their skills, lead initiatives and influence decision making, the ripple effect extends far beyond even the workplace.

“Now, today’s conference is a space for dialogue, learning and inspiration. It is an opportunity for us to share our experiences, strengthen network and reaffirm our commitment to supporting women in leadership, enterprise and economic participation. To every woman seated here today and around the world, your voice matters, your work matters,” he said.

Head of Skyewise Foundation, Uchenna Stephanie Akurunwa, said the event focused on advancing women’s rights, advocacy and economic empowerment through skills development.

Akurunwa explained that the organisation was particularly interested in equipping women with digital skills that would enable them to access global opportunities and strengthen their economic independence.

She said cyber security was among the key trainings introduced during the programme as part of the foundation’s broader focus on technology-based skills.

She added that digital skills could help bridge that gap. She noted, “Right now, in 2026, cyber security is one of the most sought-after skills for anyone including women. With that training, you can reach out to international organisations, you can get a job”

She also disclosed that the foundation was planning an entrepreneurship and mentorship symposium in April to guide participants on grant applications and business development.

Cyber security facilitator at TerraSkills, Sophie Akpa, said technology offers opportunities for women to build solutions and contribute to digital innovation, adding that exposure to training and discussions can help more women explore careers in the sector.

She said initiatives such as the conference were designed to expose women to the possibilities within the technology space and encourage them to explore digital skills through training and mentorship, stressing that women bring unique perspectives needed to build balanced and inclusive digital solutions.

Automation specialist at Einao Solutions, Maureen Esekhile, said the narrative that women are underrepresented in technology may not accurately reflect the realities within the industry.

She noted that many women have already contributed significantly to technological development but often lack visibility and recognition.

She said: “Women are taking over tech, to be honest with you. Yes, because being 15 years in this industry, I’ll tell you that there are a lot of women who are doing a lot better in the sector. It’s just that we don’t have that avenue to be showcased.” She therefore urged more women to come out and be useful to the society and stop being the back bench.