Gabriel Kuma
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) in collaboration with the International Trade Centre (ITC), is set to host HerShowcase 2025 in Abuja, Nigeria, under the framework of the United Kingdom (UK) Government-funded SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme.
This landmark event, with the themed “Trading Beyond Borders,” aims to support women-led businesses (WLBs) to increase their participation in international trade by facilitating networking opportunities with potential buyers and stakeholders, enhancing market exposure, and providing critical insights into business development.
The HerShowcase event brings together over 50 WLBs across the Agriculture, Textiles, and Beauty sectors to showcase their products and connect with potential buyers, including retail chains, supermarkets, and hotels. The event also serves as a key platform for commemorating International Women’s Day 2025 which was celebrated on 8 March, by highlighting the achievements of female entrepreneurs in Nigeria and beyond.
As part of the International Women’s Day 2025 celebrations, HerShowcase will highlight the critical role of women in trade and economic development. The event will include special recognition for women leaders in business, discussions on policies that enhance female entrepreneurship, and sessions emphasizing the importance of gender-responsive trade policy.
The opening session in Abuja on 11 March 2025 will feature a keynote address by the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole. Additionally, remarks will be delivered by the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; NEPC Executive Director/CEO, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni; Senior Advisor for ITC SheTrades Hubs in West Africa, Fatou Mbenga Jallow; and Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Gill Oliver OBE.
The session will also include goodwill messages from the Honourable Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure; Director General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Charles Odii; and Director of Trade at the ECOWAS Commission, Kolawole Sofola.
Key Highlights of the Event:
The event will feature a Marketplace Exhibition, providing a platform for WLBs to showcase their products and engage with potential buyers. The Embassy Connect initiative will offer country-specific market information desks to facilitate export opportunities for participants.
Additionally, Panel Discussions & Plenary Sessions will bring together industry experts, policymakers, and successful entrepreneurs to share insights into market trends, digital transformation, and export best practices. A major highlight will be the unveiling of the SheTrades Champion, recognizing the contribution of key personalities in supporting women in export promotion.
The event is expected to attract over 200 participants, including WLBs, business support organizations, industry leaders, and diplomatic representatives.
HerShowcase 2025 is a unique opportunity for women entrepreneurs to expand their business horizons and connect with key players in the trade ecosystem.
