The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), successfully concluded the IgniteHer Bootcamp on Friday, March 7, 2025. The five-day intensive program, held in Abuja, empowered 90 female entrepreneurs with critical business development skills, financial management strategies, and digital transformation tools to enhance their ventures.
The initiative was designed to bridge the gender gap in business and technology, equipping women with digital literacy, financial planning, and market access opportunities. Through expert-led sessions, participants gained practical knowledge on business structuring, financial sustainability, digital branding, and artificial intelligence (AI) applications for operational efficiency.
One of the highlights of the bootcamp was a panel discussion featuring a business hub manager, a venture capitalist, and an entrepreneur. They shared insights on business growth strategies, funding opportunities, and overcoming challenges. NITDA representatives also announced a special opportunity for selected participants to attend a startup event in Japan in August 2025, fostering international networking and partnerships.
Participants shared their experiences, emphasizing the life-changing impact of the program.
Imaobong Edukere described it as “an incredibly transformative experience.” She added, “This is my first time being in a strong network of like-minded women entrepreneurs. I now feel more prepared to implement what I’ve learned and make a lasting impact in society.”
Similarly, Hadiza Isah Mohammed, who was on the verge of giving up on her business, said, “I was at the point of dropping my dreams because everything seemed not to work, but I’ve been ignited and ready to continue my journey. Kudos to the organizers.”
Another participant, Fatima Muhammad, appreciated the practical approach of the training, saying, “The assignments opened my mind to using digital tools for business planning. I also learned how to attract more customers through different marketing strategies. Alhamdulillahi, the IgniteHer program has ignited something great in me.”
Eseohe Okhue highlighted her key takeaways: “Leveraging AI for business growth, learning the Lean Business Model Canvas, and understanding the importance of digital marketing have been game-changers for me.”
For Ann Ayorinde, the bootcamp was a “mind-shifting” experience: “From unlearning and relearning to understanding the digital landscape, I see myself taking my agribusiness online and expanding my reach globally.”
Reflecting on the financial literacy sessions, Shukura Ojuile noted, “I never realized the importance of having a structured business plan until this bootcamp. Now, I understand that it’s the roadmap to success.”
Expressing gratitude, Modupeola Oduwole said, “This program is an eye-opener. The facilitators’ wealth of knowledge on digital marketing and business strategies has been invaluable.”
Speaking at the closing ceremony, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs. He stated, “Women play a crucial role in national development, and through initiatives like IgniteHer, we are ensuring that they are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.”
JICA’s representative, Mr. Hiroshi Tanaka, emphasized Japan’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation and female entrepreneurship. “We believe that empowering women is a key driver of economic development. This bootcamp is just the beginning, and we look forward to seeing the impact these women will make in their businesses and communities,” he said.
Beyond the training, NITDA and JICA have outlined plans for continued mentorship and follow-up programs. The agency will provide access to grants, digital tools, and partnerships that will enable participants to scale their businesses. Selected entrepreneurs will also benefit from a sponsored trip to Japan, where they will engage with global business leaders and explore expansion opportunities.
With overwhelmingly positive feedback, the IgniteHer Bootcamp stands as a milestone in empowering women entrepreneurs, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for economic growth and digital inclusion.
As the women step forward with renewed confidence and a solid foundation for business growth, the impact of IgniteHer Bootcamp is expected to ripple across industries, fostering innovation, job creation, and economic empowerment.
