During a recent webinar hosted by the Lagos chapter of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Associate Professor Olayinka Adewunmi of the University of Lagos made this clear.

Adewunmi, who also leads the Innovation and Technology Management Office at UNILAG, said engineering education must evolve. Students, especially women, should be trained to solve real problems using fresh thinking. For her, innovation isn’t just about changing machines. It’s about finding new ways to tackle complex challenges in society.

She urged stakeholders to support programs that highlight the creative talents of young female engineers. These innovation challenges help students explore entrepreneurship, build networks, and gain mentorship. They also boost their confidence. Adewunmi stressed that such programs should inspire new ideas, challenge outdated practices, and align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Today’s engineering problems are more complex than ever. And the skills needed to solve them are just as demanding. Adewunmi said engineers must now be strong communicators, good team players, and have a passion for sustainability. They should also know how to use modern design tools and apply classroom lessons to real-world issues. From building homes to water systems, young engineers need hands-on experience that makes a real difference.

Dr. Atinuke Owolabi, APWEN Lagos Chair, backed this message with enthusiasm. She said her chapter is on a mission to grow female participation in engineering. Their SHEnovation program is built to inspire creative thinking, encourage bold solutions, and prepare women to lead. Owolabi challenged young female engineers to think beyond the ordinary. She urged them to embrace technology and use it to change industries and communities for the better.

She added that innovation is not just a buzzword—it is the heartbeat of progress. Female engineers must become problem-solvers who don’t just fix issues but completely rethink how things are done.

As technology changes rapidly and global challenges grow, creative education is no longer optional—it’s critical. The message is simple but strong: the future needs more women who think big, act boldly, and design fearlessly.

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In a groundbreaking move to address the persistent financial barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has disbursed $1 billion to women-led enterprises across Nigeria and other African countries.

This initiative is a critical part of AfDB’s mission to close the $46 billion financing gap that limits women’s access to resources for business growth.

Dr. Abdul Kamara, the Director General of AfDB’s Nigeria Country Department, made this announcement during the High-Level Dialogue on Investment in Gender Equality and Ending Violence Against Women, held in Abuja in collaboration with UN Women.

Dr. Kamara highlighted the bank’s commitment to empowering women, stating that these funds are not only supporting businesses but also driving broader economic development.

AfDB’s approach goes beyond funding, with policies and products aimed at promoting gender inclusivity and youth empowerment. Dr. Kamara noted the recent launch of a $100 million Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Fund in Nigeria, which underscores the bank’s dedication to building a future where women and young people have access to markets, enhanced skills, and financial opportunities.

Beatrice Eyong, Country Representative for UN Women in Nigeria, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the progress being made in advancing women’s rights and development across the country.

She applauded the efforts of both national and subnational governments in adopting gender-responsive policies, which aim to ensure equitable opportunities for women.

Eyong highlighted the Kaduna State government’s recent adoption of a procurement policy that reserves 30 percent of public contracts for women, calling it a significant step toward inclusive governance. She also revealed that Lagos State is preparing to implement similar policies, signaling a growing momentum for gender equity reforms across Nigeria.

These actions, fueled by AfDB’s financial support and a commitment to gender equality, are laying the foundation for a future where women-led businesses can thrive. By addressing the systemic challenges faced by women and providing them with the resources to succeed, these efforts are not just transforming lives but also contributing to the sustainable development of the continent.

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