The economic empowerment of women stands at the core of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union Agenda 2063. This empowerment ensures that women can contribute significantly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and fosters the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), where women play a pivotal role.

In Nigeria, women must attain economic empowerment as it enables them to amplify their voices and agency concerning issues that affect them, while also reducing their vulnerability to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. Hence, it is no surprise that the theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” emphasizing the urgent need to champion women’s empowerment and inclusion across all aspects of development.

Empowering women also entails breaking down barriers and stereotypes that hinder their full potential participation in economic, political, and social activities. It calls for governments at all levels to implement sustainable mechanisms that enable women to participate competently in leadership roles, free from financial constraints and stringent policies that limit their access to contributing to economic growth and development.