FG says women key to Nigeria’s industrial revolution

John Enoh, minister of state for industry, trade and investment, has outlined plans to drive a gender-inclusive industrial revolution in Nigeria.

The minister spoke at an event hosted by the ministry in Lagos on Tuesday, tagged ‘An Evening with the Honourable Minister of State for Industry: Inclusive Industrial Revolution Plan’.

Enoh engaged industry leaders in discussions on challenges and strategic pathways to ensure women’s active participation in Nigeria’s industrial development.

“For the industrial revolution of the federal ministry of industry, trade and investment, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, to be successful and deliver on its goals, it must be an inclusive one that recognises the immense contributions of the leading women in the industry,” Enoh said.

The minister emphasised the crucial role of women in shaping policies and initiatives that empower industry and drive economic growth.

“Industries thrive on innovation, fresh thinking and diverse perspectives,” he said.

“The best companies, economies, and dynamic industrial nations recognise that you do not win by excluding half of your best minds.

“This is not about gender but about competence and industrial competitiveness.

“And if we are truly serious about building a resilient, future-ready industrial sector, then we must discard every mindset that suggests this is an issue of equity or representation.”

He said women are already leading innovation in industrial strategy, manufacturing, and market development and must be recognised as equal partners in economic growth.

Enoh added that the ministry will continue to strengthen collaboration between government and industry stakeholders while addressing challenges in Nigeria’s industrial sector.

‘WOMEN ARE KEY TO NIGERIA’S INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION’

Ngozi Oyewole, president of Commonwealth Business Women Africa, called on the minister to provide greater opportunities for women in the industry.

Oyewole proposed six immediate actions to drive women’s contributions: entrepreneurship, skill development, innovation, collaboration, advocacy for inclusive policies, and sustainable practices.

“Women are pivotal to Nigeria’s industrial revolution. Our insights, experiences, and creativity are essential for driving innovation and sustainable growth in our economy,” Oyewole said.

“By harnessing the talents and perspectives of women, we can accelerate industrialisation and enhance productivity across various sectors—from manufacturing to technology and beyond.

“We urge you to provide us with more opportunities to engage in the decision-making processes that shape our industries. Including women in these discussions is not merely an act of equity but a strategic imperative for economic growth.

“Empowering women unlocks new avenues for trade and investment, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).”

Olasupo Olusi, managing director (MD) of the Bank of Industry (BOI), commended the minister for the initiative, highlighting women’s vital role in Nigeria’s industrial future.

Olusi, who was represented by Ijeoma Isiolu, BOI treasurer, called for urgent action, citing statistics that show women would take centuries to reach economic parity with men at the current rate.

“Thank you, honourable minister of state for industry, for the opportunity you’ve given to the women of Nigeria and the women of industry to meet with you to discuss our pains, pleasures and dreams for Nigeria,” Olusi said.

“We are happy to have the stage today so that there is a full role of women who will push the diversity, inclusivity, partnership and collaboration buttons.”

Olusi also thanked Enoh for hosting the event in March, a month significant for women due to International Women’s Day (IWD), and for incorporating the Accelerate Action theme for IWD 2025.