Abuja: The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has allotted 50 free exhibition booths to women entrepreneurs as part of efforts to increase gender inclusion. The ACCI President, Chief Emeka Obegolu, spoke in Abuja at a news conference as part of activities lined up to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the IWD is celebrated annually on March 8 to honor the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Obegolu stated that the allotment of free booths is part of activities to commemorate the day. He said that the theme of this year’s celebration, ‘Give To Gain’, was appropriate and highlighted the importance of investing in women through improved access to finance, mentorship, market opportunities, and supportive policies.
Obegolu emphasized that the initiative underscores the chamber’s commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment and fostering inclusive growth in Nigeria. He noted that empowering women entrepreneurs strengthens businesses, stabilizes families, and drives national prosperity. He acknowledged the significant contributions of women to the economic landscape and recognized the challenges they face, such as limited access to affordable financing, regulatory bottlenecks, and socio-cultural barriers.
The chamber’s activities to mark the IWD include a two-day Women Entrepreneurs Workshop and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) exhibition. These activities will feature panel discussions focused on sustainable financing and protection from predatory lending, as well as a social media marketing master class designed to equip participants with practical digital skills. The business exhibition will offer women entrepreneurs a strategic platform to showcase their products and services, connect with potential customers, and expand their professional networks.
Mrs. Lawunmi Ismail, the ACCI Vice President for Women and Gender Matters, stated that the program aims to strengthen women’s participation in business and economic development. Ismail emphasized that empowering women entrepreneurs impacts economic growth directly, noting that when women succeed in business, families prosper, communities grow stronger, and the broader economy benefits. She reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to creating sustainable platforms that equip women with the knowledge, tools, and visibility needed to excel in today’s competitive business environment.
Mr. Agabaidu Jideani, the Director-General of the ACCI, said that sustainable economic growth could only be achieved when women are supported and positioned at the forefront of enterprise development. Jideani described the free exhibition booths as a practical demonstration of the ACCI’s strategic commitment to women-led businesses and called on stakeholders across the public and private sectors to collaborate in dismantling barriers that hinder women’s advancement.