Danbatta calls for innovation without gender bias

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called for collaboration that will lead to innovation without gender bias.

The Executive Vice-Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, who made the assertion recently in Lagos at the Women and Girls Innovation Summit, organised by Women in Technology in Nigeria (WITIN), insisted that there ought not to be gender bias on issues that can assist the growth of the economy anchored on telecommunications and innovation.

NCC boss insists that the economy should grow to a level where it does not matter the gender of the key players.

According to him, “Together, let us forge a future where innovation knows no gender boundaries, where every idea is nurtured and where women are just thriving as pioneers and partners of change.”

Represented by his Special Assistant (Legal), Mrs Afure Iloka, he stressed that there is a need to create enabling space where women or girls can rise up to take risks, learn from failure or persevere in the face of diversity. It is through collective effort that Nigeria can cultivate an ecosystem that nurtures and amplifies ideas of innovations by women and girls, he stressed.

“As we celebrate the achievements of the incredible women and girls in this event, let us remember that this is not the end of the stepping stone towards a brighter future.

“Let us commit to fostering an environment where innovation is not bound by gender or flourishes through the power of intention to the young girls who aspire to be innovators,” he said.

He emphasised that there are barriers that “limit access to education, mentorship, funding and leadership opportunities for women,” adding that the industry must strive for equitable workplaces to support women and girls for them to thrive.

“To create a truly innovative Nigeria, we must tap into the vast wellsprings of talents and potentials that women and girls possess.

“It is a fact that when we empower women and girls, we have empowered entire communities and nations, ideas and talents have the power to drive groundbreaking solutions, disrupt industries and bring about positive change,” the NCC boss stated.