Abuja: TECHz – News Desk
The Airtel Africa Foundation has launched a targeted effort to bridge the financial divide for women operating small and medium enterprises in Nigeria. Through its “Empower Her” initiative, the foundation is actively addressing the structural barriers that have historically limited women’s access to structured financial systems and digital banking tools.
The first phase of the programme was rolled out locally by Airtel Nigeria across Lagos, Oyo, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Kano, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Reaching approximately 2,000 women during its initial deployment, the initiative targets the informal sector, which drives a substantial portion of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product. Women occupy central roles within this informal economy, particularly in agriculture, food processing, and retail trade, yet their access to credit, reliable financial tools, and capital remains disproportionately limited.
Rather than simply providing access to financial services, the programme focuses heavily on ensuring these services are comprehensively understood and effectively utilized to build resilient businesses. Participants undergo training in budgeting, pricing strategies, savings behaviors, and fundamental financial planning. Women are also practically integrated into digital platforms, such as mobile wallets and agent banking systems, allowing them to separate business income from household spending.
Additionally, selected participants are provided with micro-grants and essential equipment, including point-of-sale devices, which allow them to apply their newly acquired financial practices in real-time. To build a comprehensive support system, Airtel has collaborated with key regulatory and financial players.
The initiative brings together the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria and Smartcash Payment Service Bank. This collaboration merges infrastructure, regulation, and capability-building into a single cohesive framework designed to shift business habits and expand operational options for female entrepreneurs.
Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, emphasized that the initiative is designed as a practical economic lever rather than a mere corporate gesture. By equipping women with financial clarity and direct capital, the foundation aims to create a ripple effect where the benefits extend far beyond individual enterprises and contribute directly to the broader local economy. As the programme continues to evolve, it represents a foundational step in rebuilding the support systems for Nigeria’s small-business economy, aiming to turn informal trades into structured, sustainable ventures.
