Lagos State Partners with Made Africa to Boost Women Exporters

Lagos State is collaborating with Made Africa to expand funding opportunities for women exporters, with a focus on improving access to finance and product quality. This partnership was announced during the SheExport Conference 2026 held in Lagos.

Flora Mbeledeogu, the founder and CEO of Made Africa, emphasized the importance of product certification and traceability to reduce the rejection of Nigerian exports in international markets. The initiative aims to train women entrepreneurs, with 120 already trained and a goal to select 300 applicants.

Akinyemi Ajigbotaf, from the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, stated that the state government will support women-led businesses through the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, which has already disbursed billions in low-interest loans. The conference highlighted the need for public-private partnerships to enhance women's participation in value-added exports, addressing barriers such as limited access to finance and inadequate trade infrastructure.