NIGERIA, LAGOS – The Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, has underscored the urgent need to break barriers and accelerate women’s leadership in Nigeria’s industrial sector.
Speaking at Power Suits & Steel-Toe Boots: Women Leading Industry in Lagos, the minister emphasized the critical role women play in shaping the country’s industrial future.
The event, strategically aligned with International Women’s Day 2025, was not just a celebration but an action-driven forum designed to mobilize change.
Under the theme, “Accelerate Action – Women Leading the Industrial Revolution,” industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders explored practical strategies to ensure gender-inclusive industrialization.
“This was more than a discussion—it was an action-oriented roundtable,” said Senator Enoh. “We focused on expanding women’s access to financing, infrastructure, technology, and trade opportunities while addressing barriers that hinder their full participation.”
ALSO READ: Taxation Experts, Industry Leaders Debate Reform Bills at NASS
The minister stressed the importance of inclusive policymaking to ensure women’s voices influence industrial reforms.
He also highlighted the collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving sustainable solutions that foster women’s growth in the industry.
Beyond policy discussions, the forum served as a launchpad for industry-driven initiatives aimed at creating measurable impact.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting women-led enterprises and ensuring equal access to opportunities in Nigeria’s evolving industrial landscape.
“As leaders, disruptors, and architects of progress, women must be at the center of Nigeria’s industrial transformation,” Enoh stated. “AccelerateAction is not just a call to talk—it’s a commitment to measurable steps toward gender-inclusive growth.”
With women making significant strides in various industries, the message is clear: Nigeria’s industrial future must be built with women at the helm.
The momentum from this engagement is expected to drive new policies, investments, and initiatives that will empower more women to lead in the sector.
Key Takeaways from the Event as posted in the Minister’s social media handle include Women’s Access to Finance: Expanding funding opportunities for female industrialists.
Infrastructure & Technology: Addressing the challenges that hinder women’s participation in key industries.
Policy Reform: Ensuring that gender-inclusive policies drive industrial transformation.
Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborative efforts to foster inclusive industrial growth.
As Nigeria positions itself for industrial expansion, the role of women in this transformation cannot be overlooked. The conversation has begun, but the real work lies ahead—turning dialogue into tangible change.