In a powerful address at the Abuja Business and Investment Summit, FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, underscored the pivotal role of women entrepreneurs in driving economic growth and fostering sustainable development.
Dr. Mahmoud, serving as the Special Guest of Honour, called for enhanced support from stakeholders to empower women in business.
A statement by her Special Adviser on Media, Austine Elemue quoted Mahmoud to have stated,
“Women are not just contributors to the economy; they are catalysts for innovation and social change,” she stated, highlighting that businesses led by women are often more socially responsible and beneficial to their communities.
The minister acknowledged the myriad challenges women face in entrepreneurship, including limited access to funding, mentorship, and societal constraints.
“Empowering women entrepreneurs is not just an issue of equity; it is an economic necessity,” she emphasized.
Quoting World Bank estimates, Dr. Mahmoud revealed that women own approximately 41% of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria, showcasing their growing influence in sectors such as technology, agriculture, and manufacturing. “Women are breaking barriers and creating jobs, proving their contributions are diverse and impactful,” she noted.
Dr. Mahmoud urged the Abuja Investment Company Limited to create platforms connecting emerging women entrepreneurs with experienced mentors, facilitating the guidance necessary for their success.
CEO of Abuja Investments Company Limited, Amb. Maureen Tamuno, echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for leaders to dismantle barriers hindering women and to promote sustainable growth.
She expressed optimism that the summit would lead to actionable strategies that foster gender equity and create a supportive business environment.
The two-day summit is aimed to generate collaborative efforts that unlock opportunities and nurture entrepreneurship, ultimately delivering lasting benefits to communities across the region.