By Gloria Josiah
Women Entrepreneurs who are Catalysts for Sustainable Development and Economic Growth took center stage at the 2025 Pre-5th Colloquium, tagged ” Peace Africa”, drawing participants and leaders from diverse fields of endeavor for an impactful gathering held in Abuja on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
In her opening address, Dr. Jophia Gupar, the founder of the Pan-African Young Women Development Initiatives, PAYWODI, revealed that the colloquium was born out of the economic devastation women faced post-COVID-19.
According to Dr Jophia Nanker Gupar, “Women’s businesses were shattered during the pandemic. It became clear we needed to regroup and reimagine our economic potential,” she noted.
Emphasizing 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,” declares Dr. Gupar. “Any progress she makes is often fought by those closest to her. Unity and economic power are non-negotiable. Therefore we must be intentional in our approach.”
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 Minister, Women Affairs, Hon Imam Sulaiman -Ibrahim, 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 declared.
The National Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists NAWOJ, Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, (NAWOJ), 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 stated, assuring that NAWOJ is ready to partner in advancing this course.
In a motivating speech, Comrade Grace Ike, the first-ever female Chairman of NUJ FCT Council in its over 43-year 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”.
Highlights of the occasion included;
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.