Nigerian women entrepreneurs took center stage at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), showcasing groundbreaking innovations that underscore the rising influence of women-led startups in Africa’s technology ecosystem.
The conference, held in Yokohama under the theme “Co-Create Innovative Solutions with Africa,” brought together global leaders, investors, and development partners to chart new pathways for Africa’s growth. A key highlight was the participation of three Nigerian women innovators, all finalists from the IgniteHer Bootcamp for Women Entrepreneurs a collaborative initiative between the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The innovators – Kemisola Bolarinwa, Anita Ngeri, and Odion Ikyo pitched their solutions to an international audience of Japanese investors and global stakeholders.
Bolarinwa, Founder of Nextwear Technologies, unveiled an AI-powered device designed for early detection of breast abnormalities, offering hope for improved public health outcomes.
Ngeri, Founder of Nibi’s Tech, presented an edtech platform that equip young Nigerians, especially in the Niger Delta, with practical digital skills in coding, robotics, AI, and web design to bridge the digital divide.
Ikyo, Co-Founder of PrimeSafePath Solutions, showcased MaternalRecord Pro, Nigeria’s first AI-driven data automation system for Primary Healthcare Centres. The platform enhances real-time data capture and risk detection to reduce maternal mortality rates nationwide.
Their participation not only spotlighted Nigeria’s vibrant startup ecosystem but also reinforced the objectives of JICA’s Project NINJA, which supports African startups through access to funding, mentorship, and strategic partnerships with Japanese investors.
NITDA emphasized that empowering women in technology is central to Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, stressed that gender inclusion in innovation is both an equity goal and an economic imperative for sustainable national development.
