LAGOS, GROUP TO EXPAND WOMEN EXPORTERS’ FUNDING

The Lagos State Government, in partnership with a leading women-focused development organisation, has announced plans to significantly expand funding opportunities for women exporters in the state.
The initiative, unveiled on Friday during a women entrepreneurs’ summit in Lagos, aims to provide more accessible financing, capacity building, and market access support to boost the participation of women in Nigeria’s export economy.
Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, said the programme will address the financing gaps that have limited women’s involvement in export trade. “Women exporters play a vital role in our economy. We are committed to empowering them with the resources and knowledge they need to compete globally,” she stated.
The partnership will include the establishment of a dedicated Women Exporters’ Fund, offering low-interest loans, grants, and export credit guarantees. Training workshops on international trade standards, packaging, and digital marketing will also be organised to enhance the competitiveness of women-led businesses.
The Executive Director of the partnering organisation, Mrs. Aisha Yusuf, expressed excitement about the collaboration. “This initiative will unlock the potential of women entrepreneurs and contribute to Nigeria’s non-oil export drive. We are proud to support this vision of inclusive economic growth,” Yusuf noted.
Participants at the summit welcomed the announcement, describing it as a timely intervention that will help bridge the gender gap in export financing. Several women business owners shared success stories and called for the speedy implementation of the funding scheme.
The Lagos State Government and its partner pledged to work with relevant federal agencies, including the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), to ensure the programme aligns with national export strategies and benefits from broader support structures.
As Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy and increase non-oil revenue, initiatives targeting women exporters are expected to play a crucial role in achieving sustainable trade growth and empowering female entrepreneurs across the state.