Many Nigerians assume that most people in the country have internet access, but this is far from the truth. In reality, access to digital technologies remains unequal, creating what is known as the digital divide. Digital divide is the gap between those who can access and effectively use digital technologies and those who cannot. A significant number of people in Nigeria still lack internet access or the digital skills needed to navigate the online space. With the recent increase in data tariffs, this gap is likely to widen as more people struggle to afford basic internet access.
It is important to note that women and girls are disproportionately affected by this divide. Some might find it surprising, but deeply rooted societal norms continue to restrict women’s digital inclusion, with outdated beliefs limiting their participation in technology and online spaces. As we approach Women’s Month in March, it is crucial to discuss the gender digital divide and address the barriers preventing women and girls from fully engaging in the digital world.
Research conducted by Banyan Global highlights these disparities: 92% of men in Nigeria own mobile phones, compared to 88% of women. However, only 34% of women use mobile internet, compared to 54% of men. Furthermore, 68% of women do not own a smartphone, and only 37% of adolescent girls have phones, compared to approximately 77% of boys. These numbers underscore the urgent need to bridge the gender digital divide and ensure equal access to digital opportunities for all.
The digital divide does not just affect individuals, it impacts society and the economy at large. The recently adopted Global Digital Compact (GDC) of the United Nations prioritizes closing the digital divide. The first objective of the GDC is to eliminate all digital divides and accelerate progress across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Yet, the digital divide is not just a technological issue; it is a human rights and legal concern. Restricted digital access violates fundamental rights protected under Nigerian and international law, particularly in areas such as access to information, education, economic empowerment, and gender equality.
Let’s dive into the legal implications of gender digital divide
1. Right to Information & Freedom of Expression
The right to access information and express opinions freely is a cornerstone of democracy and development. Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression, including the right to seek, receive, and impart information. Similarly, Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) upholds this right at the international level.
However, limited internet access disproportionately affects marginalized groups, particularly women and rural communities, effectively silencing their voices in public discourse. Without affordable and reliable internet, many Nigerians are excluded from accessing government policies, educational content, employment opportunities, and global conversations that shape their rights and livelihoods.
2. Right to Education
Education is a fundamental right, yet the digital divide has created a significant barrier to learning, particularly for women and girls. The Universal Basic Education Act and the Child Rights Act guarantee free and compulsory education for all Nigerian children. Similarly, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 emphasizes inclusive and equitable quality education.
However, in a digital age where online learning is becoming the norm, lack of internet access denies many students, especially in underserved areas, the opportunity to learn beyond traditional classrooms. The gender gap in digital access further limits girls’ ability to develop Information Communication Technology (ICT) skills, which are essential for participation in today’s knowledge economy. The failure to bridge this gap not only violates their right to education but also perpetuates systemic inequalities.
3. Economic Rights & Gender Equality
Economic empowerment is closely linked to digital access. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights recognize women’s right to equal economic opportunities. However, digital exclusion hinders, to a certain extent, women’s participation in the digital economy, limiting their ability to access remote work, e-commerce, digital banking, and financial independence.
As stated earlier. research shows that women in Nigeria are less likely to own smartphones and use mobile internet compared to men, restricting their ability to leverage digital tools for entrepreneurship and financial growth. This digital gap not only reinforces existing economic disparities but also violates international legal commitments to gender equality and economic empowerment.
4. Digital Discrimination & Inequality
The gender digital divide is a form of digital discrimination, where outdated cultural norms, lack of digital literacy, and affordability issues systematically exclude women from the digital space. This exclusion contravenes Nigeria’s National Gender Policy, which seeks to promote gender equality in all sectors, including technology. Additionally, it contradicts global commitments like the UN Global Digital Compact, which prioritizes closing digital divides as a pathway to achieving sustainable development.
By failing to ensure equal digital access, Nigeria risks deepening social inequalities, limiting women’s participation in governance, and undermining national development. Bridging the digital divide is not just a matter of technological advancement, it also includes legal and human rights obligation.
While we have explored the legal and human rights dimensions of digital exclusion, one crucial question remains: How do we bridge this gap? In the next part, we will dive into potential solutions, policies, and strategies that can drive true digital inclusion for women and girls in Nigeria.
Olamiposi Fasina is a Legal Practitioner based in Lagos State with a strong passion for online safety and digital rights.
Contact her on: [email protected]
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