Professor Adenike Osofisan, Nigeria’s first female professor of computer science, has spent decades paving the way for women in education. Yet, despite her groundbreaking achievements, she is deeply concerned about the slow progress of women in academia and science-related fields. For her, the biggest obstacle is not societal barriers or parental restrictions—but women themselves.
“The women themselves are the biggest barrier,” she says bluntly. “Most women want to be the first and the only. When I ask someone, ‘When did you become the first?’ and they tell me ten years ago, and they’re still the only one, then something is wrong. It’s very unfortunate that women do not support women.”
Osofisan believes that the era when parents discouraged their daughters from pursuing education is largely over. Instead, she argues that the responsibility now falls on women to create opportunities for others. “Charity begins at home. We women must begin to rally around ourselves—not just celebrating International Women’s Day with speeches and dances—but through real action,” she asserts.
Her solution is simple yet profound: women must actively mentor and replace themselves in academia. “I have replaced myself in multiple folds wherever I go,” she says, emphasizing the importance of mentorship. “That’s what women should begin to do—create successors, open doors, and ensure that no woman is left behind in education.”
She also highlights the dwindling interest in science and technology fields among young women. “There was a time when students studying science were given incentives. I remember how the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo introduced policies to encourage science education. We need to bring those back,” she explains. She argues that targeted incentives—such as scholarships, research grants, and gender-balanced admissions—can help bridge the gap between male and female students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
According to UNESCO, only about 30% of women in Nigeria pursue STEM education, compared to 70% of men. Osofisan believes this gap must be closed if Nigeria is to compete globally. She calls for more government intervention, stressing that policies should not only encourage women to enter STEM fields but also ensure they remain and excel in them.
The professor also draws attention to the structural imbalance in Nigeria’s education system, especially in leadership. “Look at our higher institutions—how many female vice-chancellors do we have? How many women are leading faculties in our universities? The numbers are discouraging. We cannot continue like this if we want progress.”
She believes educational institutions must be intentional in promoting qualified women into leadership positions, noting that representation at the top can inspire more young women to pursue careers in academia. “We need to see women in decision-making roles, setting policies, and shaping the future of education in Nigeria.”
However, Osofisan warns against appointing women solely for representation without considering merit. “I’m not saying women should be appointed just for the sake of it,” she says. “I’ve always promoted quality women—those with the competence to lead. One of the women I mentored became a permanent secretary in the federal civil service. She rose through the ranks because she was competent.”
She insists that promoting qualified women in academia will lead to meaningful progress. “When you bring in quality, they will make their mark. But if you bring in riffraffs, they won’t add value, and it will set us back.”
Reflecting on her own journey, Osofisan shares how she built a strong support system for other women. “When I became president of my association, I was the only woman elected. But I made sure I pulled others up with me. Today, when anyone wants to run for a position, they come to me for support because they know I believe in merit and balance.”
Her message to young women is one of self-confidence and determination. “Women should never, ever see themselves as inferior. If you have the knowledge and skills, step forward and take your place in education.”
Despite the challenges, she remains optimistic about the future. She believes that with the right policies, institutional reforms, and a change in mindset among women, Nigeria can see a future where female academics are no longer the exception but the norm.
“Education is the foundation of any society. If we want to build a better Nigeria, we must invest in women’s education, support them, and ensure they reach the top,” she concludes.
With statistics showing that only 23% of Nigerian women have access to higher education compared to 40% of men, Professor Osofisan’s call for change is urgent.
