Mariya Mahmoud, Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), says women remain critical players in championing economic growth.

Ms Mahmoud stated this in Abuja on Friday at the ongoing Abuja Business and Investment Summit, with the theme, “Optimising Investments through Partnership,” organised by the Abuja Investment Company Ltd (AICL).

She called on stakeholders to support women entrepreneurs, stressing that against all odds, women were breaking barriers, creating jobs, and driving economic growth in the country.

“They are in technology, agriculture, manufacturing, and services,” she added.

The minister said women were vital contributors to the national economy and catalysts for innovation, social change, and sustainable development.

She also observed that businesses led by women tend to be more socially responsible with a profound impact on their communities.

She, however, said that despite women’s contributions to growing the national economy, they were still challenged by limited access to financing and mentorship and social and cultural constraints among others.

“It is time we recognise that empowering women entrepreneurs is not just a matter of equity; it is an economic imperative.

“This is important because women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in businesses and owning about 41 per cent of small and medium enterprises in Nigeria as estimated by the World Bank,” Ms Mahmoud said.

She urged the AICL to intensify efforts to establish platforms that connect emerging women entrepreneurs with experienced mentors who could provide the guidance and support necessary for success.

Earlier, Maureen Tamuno, the group managing director and chief executive officer of AICL, stressed the need to dismantle barriers women face and create pathways for sustainable growth.

She called for collaboration and partnership, which she described as key to unlocking new opportunities and creating an investment landscape that embraces innovation, nurtures entrepreneurship, and delivers lasting impact for the communities. “

(NAN)