What began as a one-day gathering in Borno State’s capital, Maiduguri, has taken a new dimension, a growing push for women’s economic empowerment in Borno State.
The gathering, Women in Business Summit 2026 brought together a diverse mix of participants, including entrepreneurs, policymakers, and development partners.
It was organized by CIATECH Africa and Rayyan Microfinance Bank on Tuesday.
Beyond the formal agenda, the event reflected a broader shift in how women’s economic roles are being understood and supported.
Throughout the summit, one message resonated strongly: empowering women requires more than conversation—it requires action.
Participants spoke candidly about the gaps that persist, particularly in access to funding, training, and networks.
For many women entrepreneurs, these gaps determine whether their businesses remain small or have the chance to grow.
“There are many women with ideas, but not enough support to turn those ideas into sustainable businesses,” a participant observed during the discussions.
In response, stakeholders emphasized the importance of collaboration.
Government institutions, financial service providers, and organisations working in the development space were urged to align efforts and create more accessible pathways for businesswomen.
The summit also introduced concrete steps in that direction, where plans were announced to support business registration for women entrepreneurs, alongside the rollout of an Entrepreneurship Support Programme for 100 women in the state.
The organisers say these initiatives are designed to reduce barriers to entry and provide women with the tools needed to build resilient businesses.
For many attendees, the significance of the summit lies not just in what was discussed, but in what comes next.
In a region where rebuilding efforts are ongoing, the summit observed that inclusive economic growth is increasingly seen as essential, and at the center of that vision are women—entrepreneurs, leaders, and change-makers.
The stakeholders jointly submits that if sustained, the momentum generated in Maiduguri could mark the beginning of a broader movement—one that places women’s economic power at the heart of Borno’s future.
