Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Through Innovation and Collaboration
The Country Women Association of Nigeria (COWAN) has joined forces with MoMo Payment Service Bank to organize the 2025 National Entrepreneurship Summit and Exhibition. This initiative is designed to foster women’s entrepreneurship, drive innovation, and promote inclusive economic growth across the nation.
Scheduled for November 18–20 at the Cooperative Hall, located at Presken Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, the three-day event will focus on the theme: “Empowering Entrepreneurs, Transforming Communities and Driving National Development.” The summit aims to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including business owners, investors, policymakers, and innovators, to explore how entrepreneurship can serve as a catalyst for national development.
According to Princess Ade Ogunleye, the National President of COWAN, the event will provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration. She emphasized that the summit and exhibition are a celebration of Nigerian enterprise, highlighting the creativity and resilience of women and youth. “Women from all over the country will showcase their agricultural products and innovations,” she said.
Ogunleye also noted that COWAN’s cooperative model has played a significant role in helping women access essential financial tools such as savings, microloans, training, and leadership development. This model has enabled many women to transition from small traders to successful entrepreneurs.
Mrs. Dorcas James, Vice National Coordinator and Chairperson of NESE 2025, described the summit as a pivotal moment for Nigerian women entrepreneurs. She added that the event would position these women as active participants in the economy and open up new opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The partnership between COWAN and MoMo PSB is expected to bridge gaps in financial inclusion. Mr. Emmanuel Akhigbe, Manager of Partnerships at MoMo PSB, explained that this collaboration will allow women to access financial services even in rural areas without internet connectivity.
COWAN has announced that the summit will now be an annual event, ensuring continuous visibility and growth for women-led businesses. This initiative reinforces the association’s mission of empowering women to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute to national development.
Key Highlights of the Summit
- Focus on Women’s Entrepreneurship: The summit will highlight the contributions of women in various sectors, particularly agriculture and innovation.
- Inclusive Economic Growth: By promoting financial inclusion and access to resources, the event aims to support sustainable economic growth.
- Collaboration with MoMo PSB: The partnership with MoMo PSB ensures that even those in remote areas can benefit from financial services.
- Annual Event: Making the summit an annual occurrence ensures ongoing support and recognition for women entrepreneurs.
The Role of COWAN in Women’s Empowerment
COWAN has long been committed to supporting women through its cooperative model. This approach has not only provided women with access to financial tools but has also equipped them with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the business world. The organization’s efforts have transformed many individuals from small-scale traders into successful entrepreneurs.
By focusing on leadership development and training, COWAN has created a supportive ecosystem where women can grow and succeed. This model serves as a blueprint for other organizations looking to empower women economically.
Future Prospects and Impact
The 2025 National Entrepreneurship Summit and Exhibition is set to make a lasting impact on the entrepreneurial landscape in Nigeria. With a strong emphasis on inclusivity and innovation, the event will provide a platform for women to showcase their talents and connect with potential partners and investors.
As the summit becomes an annual event, it will continue to play a crucial role in advancing the goals of women’s empowerment and economic development. The collaboration between COWAN and MoMo PSB highlights the importance of partnerships in driving meaningful change.