Maryam Lawan Gwadabe

Maryam Lawan Gwadabe is an accomplished technology entrepreneur, software engineer and digital inclusion advocate with extensive experience in information technology, entrepreneurship development and innovation ecosystem management. She is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Blue Sapphire Hub, a technology and business innovation centre based in Kano, Nigeria. She is recognised for her contributions to expanding digital opportunities, particularly for women and young people in Northern Nigeria.

Her entrepreneurial journey began with a commitment to improving access to practical information technology skills. Following her studies in the United Kingdom, she returned to Nigeria and began providing computer training and mentorship to young people from her home. In 2014, she established Blue Sapphire Hub, which has since grown into the first female-owned innovation centre in Northern Nigeria, providing technology education, business incubation and entrepreneurial support.

Under her leadership, Blue Sapphire Hub has developed programmes focused on digital literacy, software development, entrepreneurship, startup incubation and business development. The Hub has supported thousands of young Nigerians through capacity-building initiatives, mentorship and access to technology resources. Her work has contributed to the development of technology-driven enterprises and the expansion of digital skills training across Northern Nigeria.

Ms. Gwadabe has been particularly active in addressing the gender gap in technology. Through initiatives such as Women on Wednesday, ICT Solutions for Her and Hour of Code, she has promoted the participation of women and girls in digital education and entrepreneurship. Her programmes have supported thousands of women in acquiring technology and business skills, improving their economic opportunities and participation in the digital economy.

Beyond Blue Sapphire Hub, she has contributed to the development of Nigeria's innovation ecosystem through partnerships with government institutions, development organisations and private sector stakeholders. In 2023, she was elected Corporate Director of the Innovation Support Network (ISN), a national network of innovation hubs working to strengthen entrepreneurship and technology development across Nigeria.

Maryam holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Software Engineering from Coventry University, United Kingdom, and a Master's degree in Computer Network Management from Middlesex University, United Kingdom. Her professional qualifications include certifications in Ethical Hacking, Cisco networking technologies, digital marketing and accelerator management.

In recognition of her contributions to technology and entrepreneurship, she was named among Forbes Africa's 30 Under 30 in 2020. She also received the Outstanding Woman in Tech Award from the United Nations Association of Nigeria in 2022.

Maryam Lawan Gwadabe continues to champion digital inclusion, women's economic empowerment and technology-driven entrepreneurship, contributing to the development of a more inclusive innovation ecosystem in Nigeria and across Africa.