In a week when Abuja buzzed with promise, 146 Nigerian women heard the words that could change their futures.
Backed by a $50 million WTO fund, they are set to tap into the booming $4.25 trillion digital trade market.
With grants, training, and global connections, these entrepreneurs now have a shot at turning local ventures into world-class brands — and lifting communities with them.
Seizing Africa’s 1% Share
Partnering with the International Trade Centre (ITC), the WTO aims to equip women with the skills, networks, and resources they need to claim a greater share of the $4.25 trillion global digital trade market.
Africa currently holds only 1% of that market, but Okonjo-Iweala urged Nigeria to help change the numbers.
Training And Funding Pathways
From 67,000 global applicants, the WTO and ITC selected 146 Nigerian women for the first cohort.
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Sixteen entrepreneurs will enter the Booster Track, securing up to $30,000 each and 18 months of technical support.
Meanwhile, 130 will join the Discovery Track, receiving up to $5,000 and a year of business coaching.
Their ventures range from fashion and tourism to agriculture, IT, and manufacturing.
Infrastructure And Global Access
Okonjo-Iweala stressed that Nigeria must improve internet and electricity supply to meet the programme’s goals.
She endorsed the country’s $2 billion fibre optic network plan and called for closer cooperation between the power and ICT sectors.
She also urged WTO members to extend the moratorium on customs duties for cross-border digital trade.
“Empowering women is smart economics,” she said.
“When I return in two years, I expect to see jobs created, new markets reached, and more women inspired.”
