The Lagos State government has introduced initiatives to support women entrepreneurs, enhance market access, and strengthen their global competitiveness.
Special Assistant to the Governor on Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade & Investment, Hauwa Adeeyo, announced the initiatives at an International Women’s Day event.
She emphasized the state’s commitment to eliminating barriers and equipping female-owned businesses with essential tools for international trade success.
The government will collaborate with stakeholders, including export promotion agencies and financial institutions, to implement these initiatives in phases.
Adeeyo highlighted that these efforts will increase women’s contributions to Nigeria’s ₦7 trillion export revenue and the national GDP.
Key Focus Areas
- Capacity Building: Entrepreneurs will receive training on export procedures, trade regulations, market research, and digital marketing strategies.
- Financial Support: Women-led businesses will gain access to grants, loans, and financial tools tailored to their needs.
- Policy Advocacy: The government aims to amplify women’s voices in decision-making at local and national levels.
Adeeyo cited successful entrepreneurs like Nike Okundaye and Folorunso Alakija as examples of women breaking barriers in their industries.
Women’s Entrepreneurship and Economic Growth
Keynote speaker Desola Jimmy-Eboma, founder of FreshOla Organics, stressed the role of women entrepreneurs in economic development.
She noted that Nigeria has over 39 million MSMEs, contributing 48% of the GDP and employing over 80% of the workforce.
Lagos alone hosts 3.5 million small businesses, making it a leading commercial hub in Nigeria’s economy.
Through initiatives like the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), over 200,000 small businesses, many owned by women, have received financial support.
Jimmy-Eboma emphasized the importance of proper bookkeeping, urging entrepreneurs to maintain accurate financial records for funding opportunities.
She reaffirmed her commitment to equipping women with strategic tools and innovative business practices for international success.
These initiatives are expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen women’s roles in Lagos’ economic landscape.
