Women Entrepreneurs Champion sustainable growth at 2025 Peace Africa colloquium in Abuja

The vital role of women entrepreneurs in driving sustainable development and economic growth took the spotlight at the 2025 Pre-5th Colloquium themed Peace Africa.

Held in Abuja on Tuesday, May 6, the event brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the continent for a powerful dialogue on women’s economic empowerment.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Jophia Gupar, Founder of the Pan-African Young Women Development Initiatives, highlighted the colloquium’s origins as a response to the economic setbacks women endured during the post-COVID-19 recovery period.

According to her, empowering women in business is not only a pathway to recovery but a long-term strategy for fostering peace, economic resilience, and sustainable development in Africa.

“Women’s businesses were shattered during the pandemic. It became clear we needed to regroup and reimagine our economic potential,” she stated.
She emphasized that while women have demonstrated resilience in business, their presence in the political arena remains weak due to systemic financial barriers.

“The life of a woman is a battle,” Dr. Gupar noted. “Any progress she makes is often fought by those closest to her. Unity and economic power are non-negotiable.”
As the pre-event to the forthcoming Johannesburg Colloquium, the Abuja gathering set a bold tone for advancing women-led solutions to Africa’s economic challenges.

The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Imam Sulieman, represented by her Special Adviser Mrs. Enifolami Ola, lauded the initiative, pledging continued government support.

She noted that the Tinubu-led administration is committed to uplifting women, especially at the grassroots level.

Delivering her goodwill message, Olori Temitope Enitan Ogunwusi, wife of the Ooni of Ife, urged women to embrace positive self-image and refuse to let societal limitations define them.
“We must think highly of ourselves beyond any opinion especially from men. I remain a committed pillar to women’s development,” she affirmed.

Also Speaking,The National Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists NAWOJ, Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, represented by FCT Chairperson Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, praised the timeliness of the event. “When women drive innovation, they generate jobs and build resilient communities.
The outcome is always positive economic transformation,” she , assured that NAWOJ is ready to partner in advancing this cause.

In a stirring reflection, Comrade Grace Ike, the first-ever female Chairman of NUJ FCT Council in its over 40-years history, shared her journey. “Economic empowerment was my fuel. Without it, I wouldn’t have made history,” she remarked, while applauding the organisers for creating a platform that embodies women supporting women.