Aisha Babangida, founder of the Women Enterprise Alliance, WenA, has urged stronger empowerment and practical policy support for women entrepreneurs and Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs, in Nigeria.
She emphasized that closing the gap between government policies and real-world business practice is key to unlocking the nation’s full economic potential.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja, Babangida highlighted that Nigeria’s SMEs remain the backbone of the economy, contributing to innovation, job creation, and local development.
However, she noted that many businesses—especially those led by women—still face systemic barriers such as high operational costs, multiple taxation, and restrictive regulations.
“SMEs are the powerhouse of our economy,” she said. “Yet many are stifled by structural challenges. Our goal is to turn conversations into real change that empowers entrepreneurs and creates sustainable growth pathways.”
To address these challenges, WenA will host its 5th Annual Conference, bringing together policymakers, business leaders, and development experts to chart a new course for SME development.
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Themed around inclusivity and sustainability, the conference will feature in-depth discussions on simplifying Nigeria’s tax regime, promoting tax harmonisation, and reducing cost burdens for small businesses.
Babangida revealed that WenA is collaborating with UN Women to develop a comprehensive policy roadmap focused on financial access, tax reform, and business-friendly regulation.
“We’re not just identifying problems—we’re proposing actionable solutions,” she said. “Our aim is to ensure that women entrepreneurs are not left behind in Nigeria’s economic future.”
The event will also celebrate innovation and impact in the SME sector through awards such as the Most Scalable Business in North-Central Nigeria and certificates of excellence for exceptional enterprises.
In addition to policy discussions, the forum will provide networking opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and development partners to build partnerships that foster sustainable business growth.
Babangida reiterated that practical engagement and collaboration among all stakeholders are essential for Nigeria’s SMEs to thrive.
“This is the time to move beyond rhetoric,” she said. “Women entrepreneurs are ready to lead transformation, but we must ensure that the system supports them.”
Through initiatives like WenA’s annual conference, advocates like Babangida continue to push for a more inclusive and resilient economy where women-led enterprises can grow and compete on equal footing.
NAN
