Women Entrepreneurs lead Africa’s drive for sustainable growth at Abuja Colloquium

The strength and impact of African women entrepreneurs took centre stage at the 2025 Pre-5th Colloquium tagged Peace Africa, held on Tuesday, May 6, in Abuja.

The gathering, which drew key figures and development advocates from different sectors, focused on women as catalysts for sustainable development and economic progress across the continent.

In her opening address, Dr. Jophia Gupar, founder of the Pan-African Young Women Development Initiatives, explained that the idea for the colloquium was born in response to the economic hardship women endured after the COVID-19 pandemic. “Women’s businesses were shattered during the pandemic. It became clear we needed to regroup and reimagine our economic potential,” she said.

Dr. Gupar also pointed out that while women have shown resilience in business, their political participation remains minimal due to persistent financial obstacles. “The life of a woman is a battle. Any progress she makes is often fought by those closest to her. Unity and economic power are non-negotiable,” she stressed.

The event, which served as a prelude to the main Johannesburg Colloquium, boldly championed women-led initiatives as a solution to Africa’s economic challenges. Representing the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Imam Sulieman, Special Adviser Mrs. Enifolami Ola commended the organisers and pledged ongoing government support, assuring that the Tinubu administration remains committed to uplifting women, especially at the grassroots.

In a heartfelt goodwill message, Olori Temitope Enitan Ogunwusi, wife of the Ooni of Ife, encouraged women to reject limiting societal expectations. “We must think highly of ourselves beyond any opinion, especially from men. I remain a committed pillar to women’s development,” she declared.

The National Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, represented by FCT Chairperson Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, hailed the event’s timeliness. She noted, “When women drive innovation, they generate jobs and build resilient communities. The outcome is always positive economic transformation,” while pledging NAWOJ’s readiness to support the cause.

Also, Comrade Grace Ike, the first-ever female Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council in over four decades, shared her experience, emphasising that economic empowerment was key to her historic achievement. “Without it, I wouldn’t have made history,” she stated, commending the event for promoting women supporting women.

Highlights of the day included panel discussions on entrepreneurship, innovation, and gender equality, alongside exhibitions of women-led businesses, African products, and networking tours aimed at knowledge exchange.

The 2025 Pre-Colloquium is being hailed as a significant platform for amplifying women’s voices, unlocking their economic potential, and setting the agenda for a more inclusive and prosperous African economy.