The President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Dr. Emeka Obegolu, has unveiled plans to host a two-day Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) exhibition focused on women-owned businesses in commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026.
Speaking in Abuja ahead of the event, Obegolu stated that the exhibition aims to boost women-led enterprises by enhancing their market access and increasing their visibility.
“In celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day, ACCI is proud to host a two-day SME Exhibition exclusively for women-owned businesses,” he said.
He explained that the initiative forms part of the chamber’s practical efforts to support female entrepreneurs and strengthen their participation in economic development.
“This initiative is our way of saying ‘thank you’ and demonstrating our commitment in practical terms. By providing free exhibition slots to women entrepreneurs, we are not only celebrating them, but we are also investing in their visibility, market access, and business growth,” Obegolu stated.
The ACCI President noted that the exhibition aligns with this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” which calls for collective efforts to advance gender equality through collaboration and investment in women.
According to him, supporting women entrepreneurs contributes to broader economic growth and community development.
“Today, we gather under the theme ‘Give to Gain,’ a powerful call to accelerate gender equality through collective action, generosity, collaboration, and shared progress.
This theme reminds us that when we invest in women, through resources, knowledge, mentorship, opportunities, and support, we all benefit,” he said.
Obegolu encouraged exhibitors to leverage the platform to grow their businesses and expand partnerships while urging guests and partners to support the participating businesses by patronising their products and services.
Highlighting the significance of women in Nigeria’s economy, Obegolu observed that the country is home to more than 23 million female entrepreneurs, accounting for about 41 percent of micro-business ownership nationwide.
“These statistics are not merely numbers—they represent innovation, resilience, and economic impact,” he noted.
While acknowledging challenges such as limited access to finance and regulatory barriers, he stressed the need for stronger institutional support and inclusive policies to enable women-owned businesses to thrive.
“That is why ACCI continues to advocate for inclusive policies, improved access to affordable financing, and stronger institutional support for women-led enterprises,” Obegolu said.
He reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to supporting women in business through programmes and partnerships that enhance opportunities and strengthen enterprises.