Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, on Tuesday, said the federal government iq s committed to unlocking new markets, strengthening bilateral trade, and ensuring that Nigerian women, the backbone of the economy, were equipped to compete and excel globally.
Speaking at the opening of the UK–Nigeria Trade Mission – SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme in Abuja, Oduwole said the event formed part of a broader national vision under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to diversify the economy, empower SMEs, and elevate the country as a global leader in non-oil exports.
She said, “This platform is expanding market access in real time and equipping our women-led businesses with practical, actionable knowledge of UK entry requirements – from fresh produce and processed agri-foods to beauty and wellness.
“This is the kind of insight that empowers Nigerian products to meet global standards and continue for quality, safety, and identity.
“Second, we are witnessing the strengthening of meaningful partnerships between Nigerian entrepreneurs and UK importers. These connections are not just introductions they are the seeds of future collaborations, supplier agreements, and long-term commercial relationships that will scale our exports, create jobs, and build lasting prosperity for women-led MSMEs.”
Oduwole also pointed out that the mission was elevating the visibility and global positioning of Nigerian brands on international platforms, especially within the UK market.
She said, “As we all know: visibility is power. When Nigerian brands are seen, they are valued. And when valued, they attract investment, win market share, and unlock new pathways for growth.
“To the Nigerian brands here today your resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit inspire this nation. You are not merely participating in global trade; you are defining Nigeria’s global footprint.
“We are not merely facilitating transactions, we are opening doors for livelihoods, and for economic transformation across our continent.”
The minister acknowledged a significant milestone in bilateral relationship with the UK. She stated that in October, UK offered Nigeria tariff relief on almost 3,000 products under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).
According to her, “This is a major opportunity for Nigerian exporters, particularly women-led businesses to scale production, reduce market-entry costs, and expand into one of the world’s most competitive markets.”
In her remarks, Executive Director/Chief Executive, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, said the council had created a platform where Nigerian women-led businesses could access global markets, build capacity, and scale sustainably.
Ayeni stated that the gathering was more than a diplomatic engagement.
She said, “It is a celebration of shared values, mutual economic aspirations, and a commitment to inclusive and sustainable trade.
“The UK and Nigeria have long enjoyed a robust trade relationship,and today, we take another bold step forward in strengthening that bond.
“At NEPC, our mission is clear: to position Nigeria as a formidable player in the global non-oil export space.
“We are proud to serve as the national focal point for export development and promotion, and we are even prouder of the strides we’ve made in ensuring that women entrepreneurs are not left behind in this journey.”
Ayeni said SheTrades Nigeria Hub was one of the council’s flagship interventions implemented in partnership with the International Trade Centre, and supported by the UK Government.
According to her, “Through the SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme, we have created a platform where Nigerian women-led businesses can access global markets, build capacity, and scale sustainably.”
Ayeni stressed that the Trade Mission was a unique opportunity to deepen collaboration between UK and Nigerian businesses.
“It is a chance to explore synergies, unlock investment opportunities, and co-create solutions that drive prosperity on both sides,” she said.
She stated, “In March 2025, NEPC was selected as an implementing partner for the WTO/ITC Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund.
“This initiative supports women entrepreneurs in developing and least-developed countries to adopt digital technologies and expand their online presence. I am proud to announce that 146 women-led businesses have been selected as beneficiaries, with implementation already underway.
“We understand that knowledge is power. That’s why NEPC has rolled out capacity-building programmes covering export procedures, market strategy, packaging, branding, and digital commerce.
“These trainings are designed to equip our entrepreneurs with the tools they need to compete globally.”
James Emejo
About the Author
