Business Women Hub Africa Champions Structure and Funding for Women-Led Enterprises
Business Women Hub Africa has renewed its calls for stronger structures, enhanced access to funding, and sustained collaboration to bolster women-led enterprises across the continent. This advocacy was prominently featured at its 2026 Annual Conference held in Lagos, themed "Balance to Scale: Empowered Women and Its Gain." The conference delved into strategies for women to build sustainable businesses amidst a rapidly changing economic landscape, aligning with the global "Give to Gain" focus observed during International Women's Month.
Keynote Addresses and Expert Insights
In her opening remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, Assistant Women Leader of the APC in Lagos State, Hon. Princess Damilola James, represented by Executive Assistant Olubukola Odetayo, underscored the pivotal role of women in driving economic development. She emphasized that expanding opportunities for women in business would significantly strengthen productivity, leadership, and inclusion across various sectors.
Discussions at the conference centered on the critical shift from informal, survival-driven entrepreneurship to structured and growth-oriented enterprises. Speakers highlighted the necessity for clarity in business models, access to robust networks, and the ability to build systems that support long-term expansion and scalability.
Actress and advocate Stella Damasus urged women to reject limiting labels and take full ownership of their roles in business and society, noting that confidence and identity are central to effective leadership. Chair and Co-Founder of Women Radio Nigeria, Toun Okewale Sonaiya, described empowerment as a deliberate process requiring access to opportunities, linking it to the theme "Give to Gain," which she said reflects the value of shared knowledge and collaborative efforts.
Delivering a keynote address, Director at Finchglow Holdings and CEO of YBB Company, Yetunde Bankole-Bernard, spoke on the importance of specialization, delegation, and self-trust in business growth. She stressed that founders must build systems that allow them to scale operations without losing strategic direction.
Managing Director and CEO of City 105.1 FM, Adedoja Allen, shared insights from her experience in media leadership, pointing to persistence, value creation, and long-term impact as essential elements for building a lasting enterprise.
Interactive Sessions and Practical Insights
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 interactive sessions addressing key topics such as leadership, business visibility, wealth creation, and sustainability. These sessions were designed to provide practical insights and actionable strategies for participants.
A recurring theme throughout 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 to achieve long-term goals.
Support and Initiatives for Women Entrepreneurs
In her welcome address, Founder of Business Women Hub Africa, Imelda Usoro-Olaoye, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to supporting early-stage female entrepreneurs through comprehensive training, funding opportunities, and access to markets. Usoro-Olaoye, who also serves as CEO of Thinkmint Nigeria and Green Mortgage, 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 effectively.
The conference also featured significant financial support for women-led businesses through the Business Women Hub Grant. 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 operational needs. The selection process was overseen by judges Ayanime Edem, Linda Ochugbua, Abiola Adelana, and Dr. Ella Chioma Ezeadilieje, who assessed applications based on defined criteria and growth potential.
Additionally, 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. These initiatives reflect 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.
Driving Inclusive Economic Growth
The organizers emphasized 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. By fostering a supportive ecosystem, Business Women Hub Africa aims to empower women to overcome barriers and achieve lasting success in the business world.
