Body advocates increased support for women-led enterprises
Business Women Hub Africa has renewed calls for stronger institutional frameworks, improved access to funding, and sustained collaboration to support women-led enterprises, as it hosted its 2026 Annual Conference in Lagos. The
Business Women Hub Africa has renewed calls for stronger institutional frameworks, improved access to funding, and sustained collaboration to support women-led enterprises, as it hosted its 2026 Annual Conference in Lagos.
The conference, held under the theme “Balance to Scale: Empowered Women and Its Gain,” brought together industry leaders, professionals, and emerging entrepreneurs to examine strategies for building sustainable businesses in an evolving economic landscape.
The event also aligned with the global “Give to Gain” focus observed during International Women’s Month, reinforcing the importance of collective support and shared growth among women in business.
In her opening remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, Damilola Sonayon James, Assistant Women Leader of the APC in Lagos State, who was represented by Olubukola Odetayo, underscored the critical role women play in driving economic development.
She said expanding opportunities for women in business would strengthen productivity, leadership, and inclusion across sectors.
Discussions at the conference focused on the shift from informal, survival-driven entrepreneurship to structured and growth-oriented enterprises.
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Speakers highlighted the need for clarity in business models, access to networks, and the ability to build systems that support long-term expansion.
Actress and advocate Stella Damasus called on women to reject limiting labels and take ownership of their roles in business and society, noting that confidence and identity remain central to leadership.
Toun Okewale Sonaiya, Chair and Co-Founder of Women Radio Nigeria, described empowerment as a process that requires deliberate access to opportunities, linking it to the theme “Give to Gain,” which she said reflects the value of shared knowledge and collaboration.
Delivering a keynote address, Yetunde Bankole-Bernard, Director at Finchglow Holdings and Chief Executive Officer of YBB Company, spoke on the importance of specialisation, delegation, and self-trust in business growth.
She noted that founders must build systems that allow them to scale operations without losing direction. Adedoja Allen, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of City 105.1 FM, also shared insights from her experience in media leadership, pointing to persistence, value creation, and long-term impact as essential to building a lasting enterprise.
Other speakers, including Mercy Agbeti, Nnenna Jacob-Ogogo, Precious Adesina-Ola, Zusi Inegbeniki, Dr. Ella Ezeadilieje, Linda Ochugbua, Oyindamola Fawehinmi, Moyosoreoluwa Eleso, Ayanime Edem, Abiola Adelana, and Mobolaji Ajayi, led sessions that addressed leadership, business visibility, wealth creation, and sustainability.
The sessions formed part of interactive engagements designed to provide practical insights for participants.
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A recurring theme across the conference was the need to view balance as a strategic element of growth rather than a limitation.
Speakers noted that while many entrepreneurs focus on constant activity, sustainable success requires deliberate planning, clear priorities, and structured execution.
In her welcome address, Founder of Business Women Hub Africa, Imelda Usoro-Olaoye (CEO Thinkmint Nigeria & Green Mortgage), said the organisation remains committed to supporting early-stage female entrepreneurs through training, funding, and access to markets.
She disclosed that since 2020, the Hub has supported over 1,200 women across Nigeria and the diaspora, helping them build capacity and scale their businesses.
The conference also featured financial support for women-led businesses through the Business Women Hub Grant.
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A total of ₦3,750,000 was awarded to eight businesses, including Dharkag Foods, Pemnia Wellness, Anesi Lifestyle, Shammah Drinks, Evani.ng, Educare, AA Foods, and Cassia Lily, to support their growth and operations.
According to the organisers, the selection process was overseen by judges Ayanime Edem, Linda Ochugbua, Abiola Adelana, and Dr. Ella Chioma Ezedilieje, who assessed applications based on defined criteria and growth potential.
In addition, 20 media slots were awarded to members of the Business Women Hub community through partnerships with Women FM 91.6 and City FM 105.1, aimed at improving visibility and market reach for participating businesses.
The organisers said the conference reflects ongoing efforts to combine advocacy with practical support, ensuring that women entrepreneurs are equipped with the tools, funding, and networks required to build sustainable enterprises.
They added that strengthening women-led businesses remains key to driving inclusive economic growth, as more women continue to expand their role in enterprise development across Nigeria.
