On March 13, 2026, women leaders across finance, trade, creative industries, energy, and exports gathered in Lagos for Business Women in International Trade (BWIT) Connect 2026, a forum focused on unlocking global trade opportunities and building international partnerships.
The event, organised by 234Finance in collaboration with the Deputy High Commission of Canada in Lagos and the Nigerian Canadian Alumni Association (NCAA), brought together business leaders, investors, and policymakers to explore how Nigerian women can scale their initiatives beyond local markets.
Participants learned about the Deputy High Commission’s international trade mandate and commercial priorities backed by Canada’s first comprehensive Africa Strategy, engaged in discussions on export readiness, international trade opportunities, and the partnerships needed to help women-led businesses compete globally.
According to Delane Boakye, Trade Commissioner at the Canadian Deputy High Commission in Lagos, creating spaces where women can connect and exchange ideas is critical to advancing women’s participation in international trade.
“This event is incredibly important because it highlights and showcases women working in international trade and international business, especially during International Women’s Day and month. Women work extremely hard, but there are still many barriers when it comes to accessing financing or being successful in business.”
She added that networking opportunities created through BWIT Connect can lead to meaningful collaborations. Initiatives like this also strengthen Canada–Nigeria trade relationships and support export-ready women entrepreneurs seeking Canadian expertise, investment and partnership.
Ezinne Nwazulu, Founder of 234Finance, reminded participants of the power of collaboration and mentorship.
“Africa has the youngest workforce in the world, and women make up nearly half of it. When women support each other and share opportunities, it creates more value for everyone. Today, we ensure women-led businesses grow, thrive, and compete globally.
Tobechukwu Obikili, President of the Nigerian Canadian Alumni Association (NCAA), reflected on partnering with 234Finance to execute the event successfully and offered advice to women:
“Working with 234Finance to bring BWIT Connect 2026 to life has been a rewarding experience. The collaboration of our teams ensured a seamless and impactful event. To all women, my advice is to build your networks, seek mentorship, and never underestimate the value you bring to international trade. Opportunities grow when you connect and lift each other.”
Ahead of the event, 234Finance also spotlighted several women leaders across sectors including finance, trade and the creative industries as part of its International Women’s Month campaign.
Featured leaders included Chioma Ude, Founder of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF); Glory Edozien, Executive Visibility and Thought Leadership Expert and Founder of 9to5Chick and The Ascent Club; Ifeoma Uddoh, Founder and CEO of Shecluded; Beatrice Obinna Eneh, Founder of Nectar Beauty Hub; and Morenike George-Taylor, President of the RCBC Association and Group Managing Director of 355 Group
The event was supported by VFD Group and DLM Asset Management, whose partnership helped bring together key stakeholders committed to expanding global trade opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
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