By Ameh Gabriel
Women Entrepreneurs as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development and Economic Growth took center stage at the 2025 Pre-5th Colloquium, tagged Peace Africa, drawing participants and thought leaders from diverse fields of endeavor for an impactful gathering held in Abuja on Tuesday, May 6.
In her Opening Address, Dr. Jophia Gupar, Founder of the Pan-African Young Women Development Initiatives, revealed that the colloquium was born out of the economic devastation women faced post-COVID-19.
“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.
• Panel and group discussions exploring entrepreneurship, innovation, and gender equity.
• Presentations showcasing women-led enterprises
• Exhibition of African products and services
• Tour sessions to facilitate knowledge exchange
The 2025 Pre-Colloquium marks a pivotal moment for African women, amplifying their voice, unlocking their potential, and charting a course for a more inclusive and economically vibrant continent.
