On centre-stage: Some inspiring women entrepreneurs from Niger
#VoicesOfValor #WomenReimagine #NigerForward #SheLeadsAfrica
In the heart of Niger State, a quiet but powerful revolution is unfolding – led by the determination, creativity & resilience of women entrepreneurs. These women are not just running businesses; they are going beyond that – by transforming lives, uplifting communities & reshaping the narrative of what it means to be a woman in business.
Whether selling handcrafted goods in bustling markets, launching agro-based ventures in rural areas, or innovating in service industries, these trailblazers are proving that entrepreneurship is not just a path to personal empowerment, but it’s a force for collective progress. Their efforts are instrumental in reducing poverty, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth in a region that needs it the most.
The Grit & Grace of Niger’s Women Entrepreneurs
But their journey is not without hurdles. Limited access to credit, poor infrastructure, and cultural norms rooted in traditional gender roles continue to challenge their progress. Many operate in the informal sector, without the safety nets or support that formalized businesses enjoy. Yet, their perseverance shines through.
Now let us celebrate the inspiring stories of Niger State’s most inspiring women entrepreneurs – those who dare to dream big, push boundaries, and light the way for others to follow.
> Maureen P. Tamuno, Managing Director of Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL)
Maureen P. Tamuno, Ph.D wears many hats. She is a dynamic and inspiring Life & Business Coach, Speaker, Diplomat & Author who is dedicated to helping individuals and organizations achieve their full potential. Her personal journey of transformation and growth has fuelled her passion for helping others – to realize their own dreams and aspirations.
With her deep expertise in leadership development, strategic planning, and performance optimization, she is well-equipped to help executives and business owners overcome blind spots and strengthen their leadership skills.
> Mrs. Tonye Briggs Oniyide, Business entrepreneur & Rivers State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism
Mrs. Tonye Briggs Oniyide, Rivers State Commissioner for Culture & Tourism, Rivers State was born in the mid-1970s. Besides being a constructive and accessible manager of men and resources, she is also a philanthropist and a grass-root politician.
A graduate of Bio-Chemistry from the prestigious University of Port Harcourt, she has an exceptional flair for Culture, Tourism and Hospitality Development in Africa. Hence this led to her listing in 2018 as one of the top Ten African Tourism Personalities awarded by African Travels Magazine.
As a scientist-turned-entrepreneur and administrator, this spectacular and industrious African Woman has since 2003 served in various State and National capacities.
> Otunbress Timi Peggotty Dumbo, Multifaceted Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
To put is straight, Otunbress Timi Peggotty Dumbo is a prominent figure in the Niger Delta region. She is recognized for her multifaceted entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavours.
She has been honoured for her impact on the region – particularly in the areas of culture, tourism, and economic development. Additionally, she is known for her support of various initiatives that promote social and economic well-being in the Niger Delta.
Quite prominently, she was among those honoured with a “Heart of Gold” award.
> Neku Atawodi-Edun, Founder, Malaik
Making waves on the global stage is the renowned polo player, equine sports scientist, entrepreneur, philanthropist & investor – Neku Atawodi-Edun. Her passion for polo and her dedication to empowering women in sports have made her a role model for aspiring athletes and entrepreneurs.
For years, she has been the de facto female face of the sport in Africa and was recently unveiled as the face of the Africa Polo Cup, the biggest polo competition on the continent.
In 2015, she took a break from sport to launch Malaik, a crowdfunding app which raised over $300,000 dollars for local entrepreneurs in less than a year.
She made it to Forbes Africa’s 30 under 30 list that same year, for which she was described as one of Africa’s most promising entrepreneurs.
She recently became regional director for investor relations at MEST Africa, an entrepreneurial training program. Her learning from Polo has proved valuable, she admitted.
She always tells the entrepreneurs, that it’s like playing Polo, and it’s important to trust the team that they put in their best performance.
> STELLA FUBARA, Managing Director, Del-York Development Company
Backed by 25+ years of experience in strategic planning, financial management, and market analysis, she is very qualified. As the Managing Director of Del-York Development Company, she has demonstrated her ability to navigate dynamic business environments and drive sustained growth and success in Africa.
She served as Regional Director of International Operations at the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) for 9 years, promoting Dubai as a premier destination for tourism and business. Plus, she has held roles at prestigious organizations such as – Walt Disney World USA, Neom Saudi Arabia (Head of Trade), and Deloitte & Touche, USA. Her diverse experience has earned her accolades and recognition from numerous organizations and countries in the hospitality and tourism industry across the globe
Avtar Madan
Himanshu
Shree Lahiri
