FG hails NAWE’s commitment to empowering Women

The Federal Government has commended the National Association of Women Entrepreneurs (NAWE) for its unwavering commitment to empowering women in Nigeria.

The Minister, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole at the NAWE’s National Entrepreneurship Summit and Exhibition held in Abuja noted that NAWE’s efforts have significantly contributed to promoting economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, and social welfare among women.

The Minister, who was represented by the head of Gender, Hawa Usman, stressed that women leadership is central to sustainable development

“This National Entrepreneurship Summit and Exhibition is another demonstration of NAWE’s commitment to empowering women to become active participants and leaders in our nation’s industrial and business landscape.

“Indeed, Nigerian women entrepreneurs are leading the way building enterprises that not only generate income but also transform communities and create jobs.

“At the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, we recognize that the empowerment of women is central to achieving inclusive and sustainable industrial development.”

She informed that the Ministry has taken deliberate steps to integrate gender considerations into all its programmes and policies.

“Through the establishment of the Gender Unit, the Ministry is working to enhance women’s access to finance, training, markets, and industrial clusters.

“We are convinced that when women succeed, the nation succeeds. Women’s participation in industry and trade leads to stronger families, resilient communities, and a more inclusive economy.”

She urged participants to renew their collective commitment to promoting women’s entrepreneurship as a catalyst for national development.

The UN Women country Representative, Beatrice Eyong who was represented by the programme officer for women empowerment, Patience Ikechukwu noted that this year’s NAWE Entrepreneurship Summit and Exhibition is a gathering that celebrates women’s creativity, resilience, and leadership in shaping a sustainable and inclusive Nigeria.

“| commend the Nigerian Association of Women Entrepreneurs for its commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment across 36 states of the Federation and for convening this year’s summit.

“Across Africa, women entrepreneurs are not just business owners. They are drivers of social transformation. They lead enterprises that create jobs, support families, and deliver essential goods and services that strengthen communities.

According to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM, 2023), women in sub-Saharan Africa represent 42% of total early-stage entrepreneurs, the highest regional rate in the world. In Nigeria, women own about 41% of micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs), contributing significantly to GDP growth and employment creation.

The President, National Shipper Association of Nigeria, and Family Goma urged women to strategically engage in bodies and follow international exhibitions for the intervention of key stakeholders.

“We are ready to give you guidance. Currently, we are rolling out programmes that are all in favour of women. If you have a product that you want to export but not up to international standards, you’re free to contact us anytime, we are there to support you.

“We also group women into different segments to give them visibility and access to international markets.

” I will encourage women to always unite themselves and have good relationships with strong bodies so that you can all come together for the development of our nation.”

Bridget Gambo, NAWE’s deputy National President NAWE, calls on the Federal Government to note that when you train a woman, you train a nation. We are here to showcase our goods and to brainstorm on the way forward.

She urged the fg to include women in policy making as it concerns business and projects.

The chairperson of the summits, Philomena Badaiki calls on stakeholders to include women in all spheres of decision making.

“We are clamouring for the 35%affirmative in poliand every sphere of life. We are showcasing the innovation and creativity of women.”

She tasked women to be resilient and steadfast in all they do.

In her keynote address, the DG, Lagos International Trade fair complex, Vera Ndanusa speaks on how influential members of NAWE have become.

“We have had lots of captain of industries and great politicians from NAWE. The world is evolving, things are changing, this is the era of technology, and we must improve ourselves to get technological knowledge.

She commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to growing women businesses.

“Tinubu is providing an enabling environment for women businesses, Nigeria women won international grants to improve their business because they are the best in Africa

“This is the time to stay focused and grab the opportunities the current administration is dolling out..let us scale up our business and add value to your product for profit maximisation.” She said.