Women’s Day: Stella Okotete Calls for Greater Investment in Women Entrepreneurs, Empowers Businesses

Hon. Stella Okotete, OON, Executive Director of Business Development at Nexim Bank, made a resounding call for increased investment in women entrepreneurs at the International Women’s Day event held in Calabar. As a highlight of the occasion, she empowered multiple businesses with a ₦20 million grant to support their growth and sustainability. In her speech, […]

Hon. Stella Okotete, OON, Executive Director of Business Development at Nexim Bank, made a resounding call for increased investment in women entrepreneurs at the International Women’s Day event held in Calabar.

As a highlight of the occasion, she empowered multiple businesses with a ₦20 million grant to support their growth and sustainability.

In her speech, Okotete emphasized that women’s economic empowerment is not just about financial assistance but about driving systemic change.

“Today is more than just a celebration; it is a call to action,” she declared. “A call to recognize the immense potential of women entrepreneurs, to invest in their dreams, and to break down the barriers that still stand in their way. When we invest in women, we don’t just empower individuals—we strengthen families, communities, and the entire economy.”

She highlighted the crucial role of women-owned businesses in economic development, stressing that studies consistently show that when women succeed in business, they reinvest their income into their families and communities. However, she pointed out that limited access to funding and mentorship remain significant obstacles for women entrepreneurs.

“The objective of this event is a testament to the fact that we are no longer waiting for change—we are driving the change,” she asserted. “By supporting women-owned businesses with funding, we are not just providing capital; we are investing in innovation, resilience, and the power of women to transform industries.”

She called for stronger mentorship networks, encouraging women to identify and connect with business mentors who can guide them toward success. Okotete also shared inspiring examples of women who, despite challenges, have built thriving enterprises—from a small catering business that now feeds thousands to a fashion designer expanding into global markets and a tech entrepreneur pioneering digital inclusion in underserved communities.

The event, which also honored Cross River First Lady Bishop Dr. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu as the MSME Champion of Nigeria, attracted top dignitaries, including Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh (Secretary to the State Government), Dr. Mercy Akpama (Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs), Aisha Aminu (Director General, Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency), and Hon. Edema Irom (Commissioner for Women Affairs), among others.

Stella Okotete’s financial intervention and inspiring message reaffirmed her commitment to fostering a business environment where women have equal opportunities to thrive.

“By equipping our women with the skills and confidence to embrace entrepreneurship, we are securing a future where no dream is out of reach because of gender,” she concluded.