International Women’s Day (IWD) is a moment to celebrate the resilience, strength, and invaluable contributions of women to society. In Nigeria, women play a critical role in the economic landscape, driving progress across various sectors despite enduring systemic barriers. From agriculture and entrepreneurship to corporate leadership and technology, Nigerian women are at the heart of economic development.
Women constitute a significant portion of Nigeria’s agricultural workforce, engaging in farming, food processing, and agribusiness. Their efforts sustain food production and enhance food security, yet many female farmers face limited access to land, credit, and modern farming tools. Addressing these challenges through targeted policies and financial inclusion initiatives can unlock their full potential and boost national productivity.
In the entrepreneurial space, Nigerian women are leading the charge in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which contribute significantly to the country’s GDP. They run businesses in retail, fashion, technology, and manufacturing, creating jobs and driving economic diversification. Despite their achievements, access to funding remains a major hurdle. The government and financial institutions must prioritise gender-inclusive financial policies to support female entrepreneurs and facilitate their business expansion.
Corporate Nigeria is also witnessing a gradual rise in female executives, with women breaking barriers in banking, oil and gas, and telecommunications. However, gender disparities persist in leadership positions, with fewer women in top-tier roles compared to their male counterparts. Encouraging diversity and implementing policies that promote equal opportunities in the workplace will foster inclusive growth and innovation.
Technology and innovation are rapidly transforming Nigeria’s economy, and women are making strides in this space. Female-led startups are emerging in fintech, health tech, and e-commerce, providing solutions that drive efficiency and accessibility. Bridging the gender gap in STEM education and digital skills training will empower more women to thrive in the tech industry and contribute meaningfully to economic development.
The informal sector, where millions of Nigerian women operate, is another crucial pillar of the economy. From market trading to domestic work, women in this sector provide essential services that sustain livelihoods. However, the lack of social security, healthcare, and financial stability makes them vulnerable to economic shocks. Policies that integrate informal workers into the formal economy through social protection programmes and financial literacy initiatives will enhance their economic stability and overall contribution to national growth.
As Nigeria joins the world in commemorating International Women’s Day, it is essential to move beyond celebrations and commit to concrete actions that promote gender equality in economic participation. Investing in women is not just a moral obligation; it is an economic imperative. By dismantling barriers and creating an enabling environment, Nigeria can harness the full potential of its female workforce, driving sustainable development and prosperity for all.
