In Nigeria, where approximately 36 percent of the population is connected to the internet, digital technology offers life-changing opportunities for inclusive growth, expanding education opportunities, improving health services, and fostering governance. However, significant disparities in access to and usage of digital technologies can exacerbate existing gender inequalities. As Nigeria continues to invest in its tech ecosystem, it is crucial to prioritize efforts in bridging the digital divide, with a specific focus on addressing disparities faced by women and girls.

This learning brief was developed under the Gender Integration Technical Assistance (GITA) II task order for USAID/Nigeria staff and implementing partners to deepen their understanding of the importance of bridging digital divides in development programming, with a focus on the gender digital divide. It examines three main questions—1) What is the Gender Digital Divide in Nigeria?; 2) Why does the Gender Digital Divide Exist?; and 3) What Works in Closing the Gender Digital Divide? Through an exploration of these questions, the brief offers five proven strategies to narrow the gender digital gap, improve access, and enhance use of technology. Additionally, it provides Nigeria-specific examples and sector-specific interventions that contributed to improved development outcomes.