MAHMOUD: WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS CRITICAL TO ABUJA’S ECONOMIC FUTURE
By: Freda Aideyan
The Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has reaffirmed the commitment of the FCT Administration to promoting women entrepreneurship, inclusive economic growth and private sector-led development in the nation’s capital.
Mahmoud stated this at the closing of the Women in Business and Impact Day of the Abuja Business and Investment Summit/Expo 2026, organised by Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL) at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.
She noted that women entrepreneurs are making significant contributions to job creation, innovation, family welfare and national development, stressing the need to provide them with greater access to finance, markets, technology, mentorship and leadership opportunities.
The Minister urged participants to translate the ideas and partnerships generated at the event into practical actions and sustainable investments capable of creating lasting economic impact.
She said the FCT Administration, under the leadership of the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, would continue to invest in critical infrastructure, improve the ease of doing business and promote policies that encourage private sector participation.
According to her, the efforts align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly its emphasis on economic diversification, entrepreneurship, innovation, women’s empowerment and private sector-led growth.
Mahmoud commended AICL, development partners, speakers, exhibitors, sponsors and participants for the success of the programme, expressing confidence that the partnerships and investment opportunities generated would translate into measurable progress for Abuja and the Nigerian economy.
On her part, the Group Managing Director/CEO of AICL, Amb. Maureen Tamuno noted that the first two days of ABIE 2026 had showcased Abuja’s investment potential and facilitated strategic partnerships and landmark Memoranda of Understanding aimed at contributing to the sustainable development of the FCT and Nigeria.
She commended the keynote speaker, Hon. Nana Oye Bampoe-Addo, Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration), Office of the President of Ghana and former Minister of Gender, as well as the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, for their contributions and support to the Women’s Impact Day.
The AICL boss expressed appreciation to partners, exhibitors, sponsors, investors, speakers and participants for making ABIE 2026 a success, reaffirming the company’s commitment to building an innovative, inclusive and globally competitive Abuja in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
