Nigerian Women Innovators Shine at TICAD 9 in Japan, Championing Tech-Driven Growth
- Aug 28
- 2 min read
Nigerian Women Innovators Shine at TICAD 9 in Japan, Championing Tech-Driven Growth
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
YOKOHAMA, JAPAN August, 2025 –
Nigerian women innovators have taken center stage at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), showcasing groundbreaking solutions that highlight the power of technology in driving Africa’s future. The conference, held in Yokohama under the theme “Co-Create Innovative Solutions with Africa,” brought together global leaders, investors, and innovators to foster partnerships for the continent’s development.
At a thematic session on Africa’s startup ecosystems, three Nigerian women entrepreneurs – all finalists of the IgniteHer Bootcamp for Women Entrepreneurs – pitched their innovative projects to Japanese investors and global partners. The bootcamp, a collaboration between the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), seeks to break barriers for women in tech, particularly access to mentorship and funding.
Among the standout presenters was Kemisola Bolarinwa, Founder of Nextwear Technologies, who unveiled an AI-powered device designed for the early detection of breast abnormalities, offering a transformative solution to public health challenges. Also featured was Anita Ngeri, Founder of Nibi’s Tech, whose ed-tech company equips Nigerian youths with digital skills in coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence, with a focus on schools in the Niger Delta.
The third innovator, Odion Ikyo, Co-Founder of PrimeSafePath Solutions, introduced MaternalRecord Pro, Nigeria’s first AI-powered data automation system for Primary Healthcare Centres. The platform enables real-time data capture and early risk detection, with the aim of reducing maternal mortality rates across the country.
Their participation underscored the growing influence of women-led startups in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and aligned with JICA’s Project NINJA, which promotes strategic partnerships between African innovators and Japanese investors. According to NITDA, empowering women in technology is not only about equity but a vital economic strategy to accelerate inclusive growth and national development.
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