The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has called for stronger collaboration among government, the private sector, and other stakeholders to advance gender equality and create greater opportunities for women in business.
Speaking at the Chamber’s 2026 celebration of International Women’s Day in Abuja, ACCI President, Emeka Obegolu, said empowering women was critical to achieving sustainable economic development.
“It is my honour and privilege to warmly welcome you all to the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry,” Obegolu stated.
He explained that the theme of the celebration, “Give to Gain,” highlights the immense benefits societies enjoy when women are provided with the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive.
Obegolu further emphasised that the Chamber’s commitment to women’s empowerment was both deliberate and strategic.
“At ACCI, our commitment to women’s empowerment is not symbolic; it is strategic and intentional. We recognise that there is no meaningful development without women,” he said.
The ACCI president highlighted the creation of the Women in Business Trade Group in 2020 as part of efforts to strengthen female entrepreneurship and break barriers limiting women’s participation in commerce.
As part of activities marking the celebration, the Chamber organised a two-day SME exhibition exclusively for women-owned businesses, offering them free exhibition spaces to promote their products and services.
“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.
ACCI’s Vice President for Women Development and Gender Matters, Lawunmi Ismail, said the occasion provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in business, leadership and community development.
“It gives me immense pleasure to welcome you all to the International Women’s Day Celebration 2026 of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, today is not just another event on our calendar. It is a moment to celebrate the strength, resilience, creativity, and contributions of women in business, leadership, and community development,’ Ismail said.
She stated that a Social Media Marketing Masterclass would also be held to help participants leverage digital platforms to expand their businesses.
“Recognising the growing power of digital platforms in today’s economy, we will also host a Social Media Marketing Masterclass… designed to equip women with practical tools to promote their products online, expand their market reach, and grow their businesses,” she added.