The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has reiterated its dedication to enhancing women’s participation in business and trade, recognizing their pivotal role in economic growth and sustainability.
ACCI’s Commitment to Women in Business
Speaking at a virtual event commemorating International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, ACCI’s Director-General, Mr. Agabaidu Jideani, emphasized the importance of women in Nigeria’s economic landscape. The event, themed “Invest in Women: Unleashing Economic Potential for a Sustainable Future”, was organized by the chamber’s Women in Business Trade Group (WIB-TG).
Jideani highlighted ACCI’s ongoing efforts to advocate for policies that support women-led enterprises, acknowledging the persistent challenges women face in accessing opportunities, capital, and leadership roles despite their substantial economic contributions.
Empowering Women Through Policy and Training
During the event, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, Director-General of the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), underscored the council’s efforts in engaging women through various training programs. These initiatives, including market access programs and certification opportunities under the SheTrade Hub, aim to bolster female participation in global trade. Represented by Mrs. Evelyn Obidike, Director of the Product Development Department at NEPC, Ayeni reinforced the council’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs.
Similarly, Mr. Charles Odii, Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN), elaborated on the agency’s initiatives designed to empower women entrepreneurs. By providing capacity-building programs and financial accessibility, SMEDAN strives to create a conducive environment for women in business.
Creating an Inclusive Economic Landscape
ACCI’s Vice President of Legal Affairs, Mrs. Aisha Abdullahi, emphasized the need for fostering inclusive opportunities that enable women to take part in decision-making processes. “Investing in women is not just an economic imperative; it is a necessity for building a sustainable and prosperous future,” she stated.
The discussions during the event reinforced the importance of stronger public-private partnerships to facilitate financial accessibility, market integration, and targeted capacity-building programs for women in business.
As women continue to break barriers in entrepreneurship and trade, organizations like ACCI, NEPC, and SMEDAN are playing crucial roles in bridging the gender gap. By implementing strategic policies and training programs, they are ensuring that women have the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive in business.
With a strong commitment to economic transformation and inclusivity, ACCI remains at the forefront of advocating for a business environment that empowers women, ultimately driving Nigeria towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.
