At the second Gender Impact Investment Summit, held in Lagos, stakeholders called for the removal of barriers preventing women-led businesses from accessing capital. The summit, organized by the Impact Investors Foundation, emphasized the need for inclusive financing to empower women entrepreneurs.
The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, represented by her Special Adviser Fatima Abdullah, stressed the government’s commitment to improving access to capital for women. “This is not just another directive; it is a transformative step,” Kennedy-Ohanenye said, noting the administration’s focus on driving economic growth through women-led enterprises.
Ibukun Awosika, Chairperson of the Nigerian National Advisory Board for Impact Investing, highlighted the progress made through impact investing, stating it enhances women’s ability to contribute to the economy sustainably.
Engr. Afolabi Oladele, Chairman of the Impact Investors Foundation, urged investors to address the financing gap and support inclusive businesses. He encouraged collaborative efforts to create a thriving entrepreneurial environment. “Let us bridge the financing gap and fuel inclusive enterprises,” he said.
Key strategies proposed during the summit included simplifying application processes, utilizing digital platforms, and adopting gender-responsive investment practices. Participants also agreed on the importance of capacity building and overcoming legislative hurdles.
Chief Executive Director of the Impact Investors Foundation, Etemore Glover, delivered a call to action, emphasizing the significance of the summit in opening more opportunities for women-led enterprises. “This summit is a step towards breaking down barriers limiting access to capital,” she stated.
The Gender Impact Investment Summit aims to close the gender financing gap and create an inclusive investment ecosystem that enables women-led businesses to thrive and contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.
Other notable speakers included Oluwole Ajimisinmi of Wema Bank, Feyisayo Alayande of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, and Yemi Keri, co-founder of Rising Tide Africa.
