Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria
The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has highlighted the significant role that women entrepreneurs play in Nigeria’s economy. According to ACCI, there are approximately 23 million female entrepreneurs in the country, who are essential in driving economic activities across various sectors.
Chief Emeka Obegolu, the president of ACCI, shared these insights during the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration organized by the Chamber, which was themed ‘Give to Gain.’ He emphasized that the contributions of women to economic development cannot be overstated.
“Nigeria is home to over 23 million female entrepreneurs, placing our country among those with the highest numbers of women entrepreneurs globally. Women account for approximately 41 per cent of micro-business ownership in Nigeria. These statistics are not merely numbers—they represent innovation, resilience, and economic impact,” he stated.
Recognizing the importance of women in entrepreneurship, ACCI launched the Women in Business Trade Group in March 2020. This initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage women to start and grow their businesses, break down systemic barriers, and create opportunities for them to thrive in the business world.
Through this platform and other cooperative initiatives, ACCI continues to provide support systems that enhance access to markets, offer business advisory services, and create growth opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
A Strategic Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
At ACCI, the commitment to women’s empowerment is not just symbolic; it is strategic and intentional. The organization recognizes that meaningful development cannot happen without the active participation of women.
“We have witnessed first-hand that when women are given leadership opportunities and the right environment to contribute, the difference is clear. Their ideas, dedication, and resilience continue to generate positive transformation within our Chamber and beyond,” Obegolu said.
Despite the growing number of women entrepreneurs, the Nigerian business environment presents unique challenges for women. These include limited access to finance, regulatory complexities, socio-cultural barriers, and underrepresentation in decision-making spaces.
To address these issues, ACCI continues to advocate for inclusive policies, improved access to affordable financing, and stronger institutional support for women-led enterprises.
Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs Through Action
In celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day, ACCI is proud to host a two-day SME Exhibition exclusively for women-owned businesses. This initiative is a practical demonstration of the Chamber’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs.
“By providing free exhibition slots to women entrepreneurs, we are not only celebrating them, we are investing in their visibility, market access, and business growth,” Obegolu added.
This event serves as a platform for women entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services, connect with potential customers, and gain valuable exposure. It also highlights ACCI’s ongoing efforts to create an enabling environment for women in business.
Key Challenges and Future Directions
While progress has been made, several challenges remain. Access to finance remains a critical issue for many women entrepreneurs. Regulatory complexities and socio-cultural barriers often hinder their ability to fully participate in the business landscape.
ACCI emphasizes the need for continued advocacy and policy reforms to ensure that women have equal opportunities to succeed. This includes promoting financial inclusion, simplifying regulatory processes, and fostering greater representation of women in leadership roles.
By addressing these challenges, ACCI aims to create a more inclusive and equitable business environment where women can thrive and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
Conclusion
The role of women entrepreneurs in Nigeria is undeniable. With the right support and opportunities, they have the potential to drive significant economic transformation. ACCI’s initiatives, such as the Women in Business Trade Group and the SME Exhibition, are steps in the right direction.
As the organization continues its efforts, it remains committed to empowering women and ensuring that their voices and contributions are recognized and valued. Through collective action and strategic partnerships, Nigeria can harness the full potential of its female entrepreneurs and build a more prosperous future for all.
