ACCI seeks financing for Nigeria’s 23m female entrepreneurs

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has stated that Nigeria houses about N23 million female entrepreneurs who require adequate access to finance to drive economic activities across different sectors of the country. President of ACCI, Chief Emeka Obegolu made the disclosure at the 2026 international women’s day celebration organised by the Chamber with […]

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has stated that Nigeria houses about N23 million female entrepreneurs who require adequate access to finance to drive economic activities across different sectors of the country.

President of ACCI, Chief Emeka Obegolu made the disclosure at the 2026 international women’s day celebration organised by the Chamber with the theme “Give to Gain.”

“The role of women in economic development cannot be overemphasised. Nigeria is home to over 23 million female entrepreneurs, placing our country among those with the highest numbers of women entrepreneurs globally. Women account for approximately 41 per cent of micro-business ownership in Nigeria. These statistics are not merely numbers—they represent innovation, resilience, and economic impact.

“It was in recognition of this reality that ACCI inaugurated the Women in Business Trade Group in March 2020, as part of deliberate efforts to encourage entrepreneurship among women, break systemic barriers, and create platforms for women to thrive in enterprise. Through this platform and our cooperative initiatives, we continue to provide support systems that enhance access to markets, business advisory services, and growth opportunities.

“At ACCI, our commitment to women’s empowerment is not symbolic; it is strategic and intentional. We recognise that there is no meaningful development without women. Indeed, we have witnessed first-hand that when women are given leadership opportunities and the right environment to contribute, the difference is clear. Their ideas, dedication, and resilience continue to generate positive transformation within our Chamber and beyond,” the ACCI president said.

Speaking further, he noted that Nigerian business environment can be particularly challenging for women while calling for access to finance.

“Access to finance, regulatory complexities, socio-cultural barriers, and limited representation in decision-making spaces remain real concerns. That is why ACCI continues to advocate for inclusive policies, improved access to affordable financing, and stronger institutional support for women-led enterprises.

“In celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day, ACCI is proud to host a two-day SME Exhibition exclusively for women-owned businesses. This initiative is our way of saying “thank you” and demonstrating our commitment in practical terms. By providing free exhibition slots to women entrepreneurs, we are not only celebrating them, we are investing in their visibility, market access, and business growth,” he added.