Women Power Africa: Entrepreneurs Lead Charge for Economic and Political Change in Abuja By Raymond Enoch
In a powerful show of unity, resilience, and forward-thinking, women leaders from across Africa gathered in Abuja on Tuesday, May 6, for the 2025 Pre-5th Colloquium tagged Peace Africa. Themed “Women Entrepreneurs as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development and Economic Growth,” the event spotlighted the critical role of women in driving Africa’s economic revival post-COVID-19.
Dr. Jophia Gupar, founder of the Pan-African Young Women Development Initiatives, opened the colloquium with a passionate call to action. “Women’s businesses were shattered during the pandemic. It became clear we needed to regroup and reimagine our economic potential,” she said. While recognizing the resilience of women in business, she lamented their underrepresentation in politics, citing financial constraints and societal resistance. “Any progress she makes is often fought by those closest to her,” she declared. “Unity and economic power are non-negotiable.”
Serving as a prelude to the Johannesburg Colloquium, the Abuja gathering ignited fresh momentum for women-led innovation and political participation across the continent.
Representing the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Imam Sulieman, Special Adviser Mrs. Enifolami Ola reaffirmed government commitment to grassroots empowerment. “The Tinubu administration is devoted to uplifting women as drivers of national development,” she stated.
Olori Temitope Enitan Ogunwusi, wife of the Ooni of Ife, delivered a stirring message of self-worth and resilience. “We must think highly of ourselves beyond any opinion—especially from men,” she urged. “I remain a committed pillar to women’s development.”
Media voices also weighed in. Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, National Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), represented by FCT Chairperson Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, noted, “When women drive innovation, they generate jobs and build resilient communities. The outcome is always positive economic transformation.”
Trailblazer Comrade Grace Ike, the first female Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council in over 40 years, recounted her journey fueled by economic independence. “Without empowerment, I wouldn’t have made history,” she said, commending the event for fostering a network of women uplifting one another.
Event highlights included: Panel and group discussions on entrepreneurship, innovation, and gender equity. Presentations by women-led enterprises
Exhibitions of African products and services
Knowledge-exchange tour sessions
The 2025 Pre-Colloquium solidified its place as a critical catalyst for cross-border collaboration, empowering African women to not only rebuild but redefine the continent’s economic future—on their own terms.
