  Information and Communication Technology is a compendium of interrelated
applications, products and services that can either deepen or alter gender
equality. It has successfully transformed education, businesses, healthcare,
entertainment, politics and good governance within the Global North; providing
equitable access to developmental framework driven by ICTs. However, in
drafting the core developmental objectives of sustainable development, there
has been considerable gender digital divide limiting women access to resources
based on their gender, ethnicity, socio-cultural bias and the rights to utilize
such resources for development. In realization of the United Nation Millennium
Development Goals within the Global South specifically Nigeria, women are often
marginalized or excluded from ICT policy drafting and imbalance associated with
ICT. This paper identifies and evaluates gender issues and information
communication technology, with focus on the challenges and prospects for women
empowerment in Nigeria. The study critically examined research literatures and
conducted research survey on the prospects and challenges of promoting gender
equality and women empowerment through ICTs; and identifies policy implication
for Nigeria. The research survey used a random sampling technique with a target
sample size of eighty respondents. Data gathered from the questionnaire was
analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 19, and the
result was presented using ANOVA, and descriptive analysis. The study reveal
gender inclusiveness in policy drafting as a key driver for socio-economic
development, improved healthcare and women empowerment in Nigeria. We recommend
a deliberate ICT policy that attract and encourages women participation in ICT
developmental framework.
