VP: NNEW Empowers Women Entrepreneurs

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VP: NNEW Empowers Women Entrepreneurs

Empowering Women Through Entrepreneurship

The Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW), a group under the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), has made significant strides in empowering women through various programs and initiatives. At a recent press conference in Ikeja, Lagos, Mrs Bolanle Edwards, the Vice President of NNEW, highlighted the group's impact on the lives of women over the past two decades.

Since its establishment 20 years ago, NNEW has grown from a small group with fewer than 100 members to an organization with over 2,000 members spread across five chapters. This expansion reflects the group’s commitment to fostering women's entrepreneurship and leadership. The organization is set to commemorate its 20th anniversary at its headquarters in Ikeja from October 8 to 9, with the theme “Evolve, Elevate, and Celebrate.”

The event will feature notable speakers such as Dr Toyin Sani, Executive Vice-Chair of Emerging Africa Capital, and Funke Opeke, CEO of MainOne. Dignitaries and award recipients will also be present, highlighting the significance of the occasion. Over the years, NNEW has remained dedicated to promoting women's empowerment through a range of activities.

Key Achievements and Programs

NNEW has focused on training women in critical areas such as entrepreneurship, leadership, digital transformation, financial literacy, and innovation. These programs have not only enhanced business skills but also encouraged women to embrace technology and the digital economy, ensuring their relevance in a rapidly changing market.

Edwards emphasized that no woman should face the challenges of entrepreneurship alone. To support this, NNEW has established a robust mentorship program, pairing emerging entrepreneurs with experienced mentors. Additionally, peer-to-peer learning circles and business clusters have created safe spaces for women to share challenges, exchange ideas, and build confidence. Many successful women-led enterprises trace their origins to these mentoring relationships.

Advocacy and Collaboration

Beyond direct support, NNEW has championed policies aimed at improving access to finance, reducing trade barriers, and creating a business environment where women can thrive. Their engagement with policymakers has influenced national conversations on gender equity and entrepreneurship.

Access to markets and finance remains a challenge for many women entrepreneurs, but through collaborations with financial institutions like FCMB Ventures Initiative, NNEW has helped members secure critical funding and financial tools to scale their businesses. The group invests in young women and next-generation entrepreneurs by offering training, mentorship, and growth platforms.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite facing challenges such as economic recessions, policy shifts, global disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic, and the rapid evolution of technology, NNEW has shown remarkable resilience. Edwards expressed gratitude to NECA, founders, past presidents, members, partners, financial institutions, development agencies, and private sector allies for their continued collaboration.

Looking Ahead

Mrs Dominga Omolara Odebunmi, Chairperson of the NNEW 20th Anniversary Planning Committee, announced that the organization’s 10-Year Strategic Plan will be unveiled during the event. The celebration will include cultural performances, networking breaks, interactive activities, and health check-ups.

Odebunmi highlighted the remarkable journey of NNEW, emphasizing its undeniable impact. The organization has empowered thousands of women, built strong mentorship networks, influenced national discourse, and contributed significantly to enterprise development. These efforts have earned recognition both locally and internationally, affirming that NNEW's story is one of resilience, progress, and collective victory.

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