In a bid to deepen financial inclusion among Nigeria’s informal sector, the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CrediCorp), in collaboration with Sytiamo Technology Limited, has launched a credit initiative targeted at market women. The partnership kicks off with a pilot phase at Ariaria International Market in Aba, where 10,000 women are set to benefit from inventory credit worth up to N100,000.
For many market women who trade daily but struggle with access to formal credit, this intervention marks a significant shift. “They sell every day. They hustle non-stop. But credit? Still out of reach for most market women,” CrediCorp stated in an official release.
The initiative provides inventory credit at affordable rates, enabling women to restock goods, increase daily turnover, and grow their small-scale enterprises. By removing the traditional barriers that have excluded many female traders from credit systems, the programme aims to empower more women in business and stimulate growth in local markets.
CrediCorp confirmed that while Ariaria Market serves as the starting point, the programme will expand to 224 markets across 28 states. “Because when women grow, markets thrive,” the organization noted.
The goal is to reach 100,000 women nationwide, representing one of the largest efforts to bring credit solutions directly to informal women-led businesses. The project also reflects a broader drive to build inclusive financial tools that align with Nigeria’s economic development priorities.
More information on how to apply is available Here.