Despite representing 39.17% of exporters registered in Nigeria, women led by women continue to face challenges to access the necessary resources to climb their operations.
This was highlighted by the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, during the She Trade Platform event, organized in collaboration with the International Trade Center (ITC) and financed by the United Kingdom Government (United Kingdom).
“To date, of 30,876 registered exporters, 12,095 are women, representing 39.17%. This shows that Nigerian women are active players in the world commercial scene, but we must ensure that they have the necessary resources, financing and support to climb their businesses. “
“For the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) that provide support to 3600 female exporters and the International Commerce Center (ITC) for their commitment to provide access to resources and networks with 18 operations centers,” the minister praised.
He pointed out that Nigeria, the largest economy in Africa, has a population of more than 200 million, with two thirds under 30.
“According to the National Statistics Office (NBS) and the World Bank, more than 40% of SMEs in Nigeria are owned by women. This highlights the crucial role of women entrepreneurs in promoting economic growth and innovation.
“To date, of 30,876 registered exporters, 12,095 are women, representing 39.17%. This shows that Nigerian women are active players in the world commercial scene, but we must ensure that they have the necessary resources, financing and support to climb their businesses. “
Oduwole further recognized the importance of women as a vital strategic pillar of the economy. “Women have always been in the heart of the economic activity of Africa, from carrying goods through borders to business management and producing high value for export.
“Women led by women are promoting industrialization, employment creation and economic diversification. However, we recognize the barriers that many face to access international markets, financing and commercial networks.
“Shetrades Nigeria settled to break these barriers and train Nigerian women to prosper in commerce.
“Shetrades provides women entrepreneurs and producers access to key knowledge, resources and networks, supports policy formulaors on inclusive policy reforms and takes advantage of public and private associations to amplify the impact of our work.
“So he urges him to take measures, either as a policy formulator, business leader or investor, by supporting companies led by women, advocating more sessions for the construction of capacity, access, commercial policies and creating opportunities for women to climb and compete,” he said.
As part of the event, the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, was honored for his contributions to the commercial and export sector of Nigeria.
Dr. Oduwole was recognized as Nigeria's commercial export champion for her pending efforts to advance the beneficial trade agreements for the country.
While presenting the award, Ayeni praised Oduwole's dedication to expand the commercial opportunities of Nigeria, particularly for businesswomen.
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