Back in Abuja, I had the privilege of participating as a panelist at the International Women’s Day event organized by Ms. Fatima Faruk, the Special Assistant to the President on Women’s Affairs. The event provided an invaluable platform to discuss this year’s theme, which centered on the importance of accelerating progress by investing in women. It was a remarkable gathering that highlighted the critical role women play in driving economic growth and social development, particularly in Nigeria.
The event brought together accomplished women from both the public and private sectors, all of whom shared their unique perspectives on women’s empowerment. Our panel focused on actionable strategies for ensuring that women not only have a seat at the table but are also empowered to lead and innovate across various industries. We examined the multifaceted challenges women face, including gender bias, limited access to finance, and socio-cultural barriers, while emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues.
Under my leadership at the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), we have taken decisive steps to prioritize women’s empowerment. One of our most impactful initiatives is the establishment of a dedicated women’s desk at SMEDAN, which is specifically designed to support women entrepreneurs and address their unique needs. This desk provides targeted programs, access to finance, capacity-building workshops, and mentorship opportunities to help women entrepreneurs overcome the challenges they face in starting and scaling their businesses.
During the panel, I urged women to reject any limitations imposed on their ambitions. I emphasized that societal expectations and perceived barriers should never deter them from pursuing their dreams. At SMEDAN, we remain committed to providing women with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed. I reassured the women present that our agency’s ongoing support for female entrepreneurs will only continue to grow, as we aim to increase the participation of women in Nigeria’s SME sector.
The session was further enriched by the insights shared by my fellow panelists, who included leaders from diverse industries. Their experiences and advice illuminated various aspects of women’s leadership and entrepreneurship, making the event a source of inspiration for all attendees.
In conclusion, the International Women’s Day event was a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that investing in women can have on society. By continuing to champion women’s empowerment, we are not only fostering gender equality but also unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s economy.
