West African women's business fair emphasizes empowerment

The 2024 Business Fair of the Federation of Business Women Entrepreneurs (FEBWE) concluded successfully in Victoria Island, Lagos. The event took place from September 25 to 27 and focused on empowering women entrepreneurs in West Africa. The fair ended with a gala dinner.

Attendees included influential women from across West Africa, particularly Nigeria. Notable figures present were H E Dame Pauline Tallen, former Minister for Women Affairs; Dr. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, President-General of the Association of Commodity Market Women & Men of Nigeria; and Madame Candide Leguede, Regional President of ECOWAS FEBWE.

Various institutions delivered papers and presentations on business growth through innovative digital tools and grants. These included the International Trade Centre-Geneva, Wema Bank, and CBW Africa.

Her Excellency Dame Tallen opened the event by highlighting the impact of empowering women on society. “When women are empowered, the family, society, and the nation are empowered,” she said. She encouraged private sector support for FEBWE initiatives.

Dr. Anthony Luka Elumelu represented the ECOWAS Commission at the event. He spoke about FEBWE’s role in promoting economic integration in West Africa. He emphasized prioritizing the ECOWAS protocol on free movement to enhance regional growth through cross-border trade.

Dr. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo stressed that women entrepreneurs need better access to funds and government support. She called for more initiatives like FEBWE to provide awareness and networking opportunities for women across ECOWAS Member States.

Over 35 exhibitors displayed products from various African countries, showcasing female-led businesses' diversity and strength in the region. Princess Omotola Omole, President of FEBWE Nigeria, praised the platform for fostering trade and empowering women entrepreneurs.

Madame Candide Leguede discussed challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in cross-border trade during a panel interview. She highlighted the importance of understanding trading regulations to navigate border challenges effectively. “Both businessmen and women need to know their rights to ensure officials act professionally,” she stated.

The 2024 edition demonstrated FEBWE's commitment to advancing women's roles in business throughout West Africa while aiming for greater integration and cross-border trade opportunities.