Despite making up 39.17% of registered exporters in Nigeria, women-led businesses continue to face challenges in accessing the resources needed to scale their operations.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, during the She Trades platform event, organized in collaboration with the International Trade Center (ITC) and funded by the United Kingdom (UK) government.
“To date, out of 30,876 registered exporters, 12,095 are women, representing 39.17%. This shows that Nigerian women are active players in the global trade landscape, yet we must ensure they have the necessary resources, financing, and support to scale their businesses.”
“To the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) who provide support for 3600 female exporters, and the International Trade Centre (ITC) for their commitment to providing access to resources and networks with 18 She Trades hubs,” the Minister praised.
She noted that Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, boasts a population of over 200 million, with two-thirds under 30 of age.
“According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the World Bank, over 40% of SMEs in Nigeria are women-owned. This highlights the crucial role of women entrepreneurs in driving economic growth and innovation.
“To date, out of 30,876 registered exporters, 12,095 are women, representing 39.17%. This shows that Nigerian women are active players in the global trade landscape, yet we must ensure they have the necessary resources, financing, and support to scale their businesses.”
Oduwole further recognized the importance of women as a vital strategic pillar of the economy. “Women have always been at the heart of Africa’s economic activity—from carrying goods across borders to managing businesses and producing high-value products for export.
“Women-led businesses are driving industrialization, job creation, and economic diversification. Yet, we recognize the barriers many face in accessing international markets, financing, and trade networks.
“SheTrades Nigeria was established to break down these barriers and empower Nigerian women to thrive in trade.
“SheTrades provides women entrepreneurs and producers with access to key knowledge, resources, and networks, supports policymakers on inclusive policy reforms, and leverages public and private partnerships to amplify the impact of our work.
“So I urge you to take action—whether as a policymaker, business leader, or investor—by supporting women-led businesses, advocating for more capacity-building sessions, access, trade policies, and creating opportunities for women to scale and compete”, she stated.
As part of the event, the Minister for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, was honored for her contributions to Nigeria’s trade and export sector.
Dr. Oduwole was recognised as Nigeria’s Trade Export Champion for her outstanding efforts in advancing beneficial trade agreements for the country.
While presenting the award, Ayeni praised Oduwole’s dedication to expanding Nigeria’s trade opportunities, particularly for women entrepreneurs.
READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
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