Data Analyst at Bitnob Technologies
Nafisa Lawal Idris is a dynamic Data Scientist with a strong academic foundation and a wealth of professional experience. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from the Nigeria Defence Academy. Hailing from Sokoto State, Nigeria Nafisa has become a trailblazer and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the technology sector.
Nafisa’s journey into the field of data science began during her internship at the National Teachers Institute in Kaduna, where she digitised outdated databases and significantly enhanced student enrollment processes. This experience ignited her passion for data science and set her on a path of continuous learning and professional growth. Over the span of nine years, she transitioned from a data entry intern to roles such as Statistical Data Analyst, Data Analyst and ultimately, Data Scientist.
Professionally, Nafisa has contributed to numerous high-impact projects. She played a key role in implementing a cashless policy for a financial institution, focusing on data integration, fraud detection, and user adoption. Additionally, she worked on a project aimed at preventing money laundering through blockchain analysis, utilising advanced monitoring techniques to detect and prevent illegal activities within the Bitcoin ecosystem.
Nafisa’s expertise spans machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, and she has successfully led projects that enhance user experience and product performance. She has also developed digital platforms to streamline savings and facilitate the acquisition of budget-friendly, premium fresh produce.
Beyond her technical accomplishments, Nafisa is a recognised leader and mentor in the tech community. She has contributed to programs such as ADList, KaggleX, She Connect Africa, Google Women Techmakers (WTM) Ilorin, and Women in Data Science (WiDS). As a Global Ambassador at WomenTech Network, Women in Data Science (WiDS) and an Advisory Board Member at Spendo Technologies, she actively shapes the tech ecosystem. She has also been a finalist for prestigious awards, such as the Women in Tech® – Global Africa Best Ally Award 2023.
Nafisa is passionate about empowering women in STEM fields, particularly in underrepresented regions like Northern Nigeria. She has seen firsthand the transformative impact of diversity and inclusion initiatives and remains dedicated to breaking barriers and inspiring others. Her commitment to professional excellence is further underscored by her memberships in the Professional Statisticians Society of Nigeria (PSSN), the Chartered Institute of Statisticians of Nigeria (CISON), and ForbesBLK.
Currently exploring Bitcoin development and contributing to open-source projects, Nafisa exemplifies adaptability and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. She is committed to making meaningful contributions to the tech community, driving positive change, and leaving a lasting legacy in the ever-evolving landscape of data science.
