Lagos, Nigeria — August 16, 2025 | The World Trade Organisation (WTO) has unveiled a $50 million global fund to empower women-led businesses in the export sector, with 146 Nigerian entrepreneurs among the first beneficiaries.
The fund aims to help women overcome trade barriers, enhance market access, and strengthen their participation in international commerce. It will provide direct grants, technical assistance, and capacity-building programmes to boost the competitiveness of women-owned enterprises.
Announcing the initiative during a virtual briefing, WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala stressed that women in developing economies face unique challenges in scaling up for global trade. She explained that the funding would bridge financing gaps, promote inclusive growth, and ensure more equitable participation in cross-border trade.
According to Nigeria’s Ministry of Trade and Investment, the selected beneficiaries represent all six geopolitical zones, with ventures spanning agriculture, fashion, manufacturing, and technology. Officials say the initiative could help stimulate job creation, especially in rural communities where many women entrepreneurs operate.
Economic experts believe the programme could give a significant boost to Nigeria’s non-oil exports, reinforcing the country’s diversification drive and positioning women as a driving force in economic transformation.
