NITDA’s ‘IgniteHer Bootcamp’, a pathway to women empowerment, ends with positive feedback

*The National Information Technology Development Agency, in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency, concludes its five-day ‘IgniteHer Bootcamp’ with overwhlemingly positive feedback as a transformative initiative designed to bridge the gender gap in business, and empower Nigerian women to thrive in the digital economy

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

The IgniteHer Bootcamp, a flagship initiative of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), concluded successfully Friday, March 7, 2025.

ConsumerConnect reports NITDA said the five-day bootcamp delivered high-impact value as the programme ensured that participants left with actionable strategies to strengthen their entrepreneurial journey in Nigeria.

The agency noted that the programme empowered 90 female entrepreneurs with essential knowledge, skills, and networks to build and scale successful businesses.

Through expert-led sessions and hands-on learning, participants gained practical insights into business development, financial management, and digital transformation.

NITDA restated the IgniteHer Bootcamp was specifically designed to foster digital literacy, market opportunities, and the use of technology while addressing systemic barriers limiting women’s participation in entrepreneurship.

It also explained the initiative aimed to bridge the gender gap in business and technology, equip women with critical business knowledge in financial management, business planning, and sustainability, provide access to mentorship opportunities and industry experts to support business growth.

The country’s Information Technology (IT) sector regulatory agency further related that each day of the bootcamp delivered high-impact value as it ensured the participants learnt actionable strategies to strengthen their entrepreneurial journey.

NITDA explained the first day focused on understanding gender disparity in business. Participants explored systemic barriers limiting women in entrepreneurship, including funding gaps and societal biases, while gaining strategies to overcome these challenges.

It stated the second day delved into the fundamentals of a business plan, break-even business analysis, and the Lean Business Model Canvas, along with a practical session on setting SMART goals, enabling participants to develop structured business plans.

According to NITDA, the third day focused on digital literacy, the use of cloud storage, online communication, internet safety, and human resource and financial management.

Besides, there were practical sessions on the use of digital tools for content creation, bookkeeping, and business management.

The fourth day, the agency noted, explored digital transformation and business growth, where entrepreneurs learned how to leverage technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to scale their businesses, covering digital branding, digital marketing, and essential digital tools for operational efficiency.

The final day featured a panel discussion with industry experts—a business hub manager, an entrepreneur, and a venture capitalist—moderated by an ecosystem accelerator who shared insights on business growth, funding opportunities, and overcoming challenges in entrepreneurship.

The session concluded with an open discussion, allowing participants to reflect on their learning and plan their next steps.

The IT sector regulator said the bootcamp for women entrepreneurs was highly interactive, with participants engaging in discussions, practical exercises, and real-world case studies.

Participants relate experiences at Bootcamp

NITDA equally, said several  participants shared their key learnings on LinkedIn and other platforms, demonstrating the program’s lasting impact.

Imaobong Edukere, one the participants, stated: “The IgniteHer Bootcamp has been an incredibly transformative experience for me.

“It’s my first time being in a strong network of like-minded women entrepreneurs and drinking from their knowledge….

” I now feel more prepared to implement what I’ve learned and make a lasting impact in society.”

She added: “Thank you, NITDA and JICA, for this valuable growth, timely support, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—I have just been IGNITED!”

Hadiza Isah Mohammed, another participant in the programme, wrote: “Hello, good morning everyone. This is one of the most inspirational bootcamps I’ve ever attended.

“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 organisers.”

In her own words, Shukura Ojuile, another participant, noted some of her key take aways from the programme.

Ojuile stated: “I didn’t know the reality of gender gap until I heard people sharing their personal experiences.

“Learning about the need to have Business Plan, that it’s the roadmap to having a successful business.”

She noted: “The incorporation of Digital Marketing, Financially Literacy, and using the technology… has been really mind-blowing and insightful.

“Thank you very much for this opportunity.”

Modupeola Oduwole as well wrote of her experience: “Thank you to NITDA and JICA.

I’m grateful to be with amazing women that shared from their wealth of knowledge regarding digital marketing strategies. “And as we celebrate women’s day, tomorrow’s event is such a wonderful opportunity and experience.”

Recapping the essence of the initiative, NITDA noted the programme fostered “a strong network of women entrepreneurs, promoting mentorship and long-term collaboration.”

The session ended with a vote of thanks from the Special Assistant to the Director-General of NITDA.

The aide stressed the open opportunity for a tour to Japan for select businesses and startups, who would have the opportunity to participate in a startup event in Japan, come August 2025.

The agency disclosed this event provides a unique opportunity to network and partner with Japanese companies.

Participants also have been provided a link to apply their learnings and submit a pitch deck or business plan on their respective and prospective companies.

The agency affirmed “indeed, NITDA is ready to handhold these businesses to make an impact in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on economic growth.

“With overwhelmingly positive feedback, the IgniteHer Bootcamp stands as a transformative programme, driving progress in bridging the gender gap in business and empowering women to thrive in the digital economy.”

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