Weyinmi Eribo is the Director-General of the Women Chamber of Commerce Industry Mines and Agriculture (WCCIMA), an institution dedicated to advancing the development and achievement of Nigerian women in commerce and industry through strategic initiatives, advocacy, and collaboration. In this interview, she speaks on how women entrepreneurs and professionals are supported to contribute significantly to economic growth and development, breaking barriers along the way. Excerpts:
PT: As the Director-General of the Women Chamber of Commerce, how would you assess the current state of women’s participation in Nigeria’s trade and commerce sectors? Are there any specific challenges or opportunities you’ve identified recently?
Women have long been a critical force driving Nigeria’s trade and commerce, contributing significantly to the formal and informal sectors. However, despite their vital role, they face significant barriers that hinder their ability to grow and scale businesses. These barriers include limited access to finance, particularly for startups and micro-enterprises, inadequate market linkages that restrict their exposure to potential customers and suppliers, and a lack of sufficient capacity-building opportunities that would allow them to develop their skills and businesses to a competitive level. Nonetheless, the landscape is evolving. There is an increasing awareness of these challenges, and efforts are being made to bridge the gender gap in commerce. Opportunities in digital trade are growing, particularly with the expansion of e-commerce platforms and social media, which allow women to reach wider markets. The regional market under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) also presents a unique opportunity for Nigerian women entrepreneurs to tap into a larger, integrated market. Additionally, government-led support programs targeting SMEs are becoming more prevalent, providing women with some avenues for growth and development.
