‘Hopes to See Improved Work Cultures’

Over the years, the Nigerian gaming industry has seen significant progress in the inclusion of women in leadership roles. However, there still seems to be significant gap in the ratio of men to women in executive and operational roles in the industry. Numerous studies have highlighted the multitude of benefits that greater gender diversity yields for organisations, from improved decision-making and innovation to better financial performance. However, deep-rooted biases, cultural norms and workplace practices continue to hinder the advancement of women into senior management and board positions globally.

The inclusiveness of women in the industry is essential for fostering diversity and unlocking a wealth of untapped talent. It’s about providing equal opportunities for women across all levels. In terms of roles, breaking traditional moulds is crucial. Encouraging women to explore and excel in fields traditionally dominated by men not only dismantles stereotypes but also brings diverse perspectives to the table, fostering innovation.

Designations should be assigned based on merit and competence rather than gender. Recognising and valuing the skills and expertise of women in leadership roles contribute to a more balanced and effective decision-making process. Responsibilities should be distributed without bias, allowing women to take on challenging and influential tasks. This not only empowers women individually but also benefits the organisation by leveraging a broader range of skills and experiences.

Globally, there are still challenges in viewing women in leadership jobs in the same way that men do, and women are often responsible for managing work and domestic life. Society is less kind to women when they fail at doing this despite the discouraging structure of the workplace that gives women the liberty to actually excel in both. As the industry evolves, we hope to see improved work cultures that are more inclusive and encourages women to explore roles beyond the norm.

–Maha Otu, Director, BetWinner Nigeria