NAWE Calls For Recognition Of Its Role In Women’s Entrepreneurship

In commemoration of International Women’s Day, the National Association of Women Entrepreneurs (NAWE), Abuja Chapter, has urged the government to grant the association the rights to perform its designated roles effectively.

Speaking at the event organized in Abuja to mark the occasion, the FCT Director of National Association Of Women Entrepreneurs,NAWE, Mrs. Margaret Atsevah, expressed concern that the association’s responsibilities are being handled by other offices, limiting its effectiveness.

She explained that NAWE was established in 1993 following the United Nations’ declaration of 1975-1985 as the Decade for Women. Its core mission is to promote women’s entrepreneurial activities and transform them from  informal to formal sector of Nigeria’s economy.

Mrs. Atsevah who outlined some of NAWE’s key responsibilities, such as
Developing long-term plans for women entrepreneurs, Creating an enabling environment for idea exchange ,upgrading skills and mobilizing resources for women entrepreneurs and showcasing the impact of women’s entrepreneurship on development. lamented that these roles are being taken over by various ministries and parastatals, with some even representing NAWE at international meetings and showcasing their products.

“We are fully capable of carrying out our mandate,” she stated. “NAWE was born out of the UN’s vision for women’s economic progress. While we welcome collaboration, it is unacceptable that others are performing our duties while we are sidelined.”

She called on all Abuja women entrepreneurs to join NAWE, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in driving economic growth and advancing women’s interests.

In her remark, Director of Programmes, Radio Nigeria Mrs. Msurshima Kighiir commended  the women entrepreneurs for their resilience amid various challenges.

She urged other organizations to follow Radio Nigeria’s example of providing equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of their gender.

Assistant Director, NAME, Mrs. Margaret Adekoya, encouraged women entrepreneurs to prioritize empowering other women, particularly those less privileged, to reduce financial dependency on their husbands.

Speaking also a member of NAME and CEO of TreMac Mrs. Aniesua Bernard advised women to take their businesses seriously and warned that many women become financially stranded after losing their husbands because they lack skills or independent income sources.

“If women empower themselves, they will be able to face any challenge,” she added.

By Vicky Gaji, Edited By Shakirah Alabi