A groundbreaking new study by Mastercard reveals that 83% of Nigerian women identify as entrepreneurs, showcasing the powerful entrepreneurial spirit driving women in the country. This figure far surpasses the regional average of 51% across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, positioning Nigeria as a continental leader in female entrepreneurship.
The report, titled “Empowerment for All,” was released in March 2025 ahead of International Women’s Day. It highlights a growing trend—more Nigerian women are turning to entrepreneurship to gain financial independence, pursue their ambitions, and bring fresh business ideas to life. The study shows that 87% of Nigerian women engage in income-generating activities outside their primary jobs. These include side hustles, small businesses, and creative ventures.
This entrepreneurial energy reflects personal empowerment but also responds to economic challenges. With limited formal job opportunities, many Nigerian women are creating sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their families.
However, the Mastercard report also outlines major hurdles. The top three challenges facing women entrepreneurs are lack of funding (57%), limited financial resources (56%), and difficulty accessing startup capital (40%). These obstacles prevent many women-led ventures from growing or achieving long-term success.
The findings call for targeted interventions—institutional support, access to funding, and women-focused training programs. Policies that support mentorship and improve access to financial tools are essential for unleashing the full potential of women entrepreneurs.
Nigerian women aren’t waiting for change—they’re driving it. From tech and retail to agribusiness and the creative sector, their businesses are already shaping the nation’s economic landscape.
For Africa’s growth to be inclusive and transformative, women’s entrepreneurship must be recognized, supported, and celebrated. The Mastercard study serves as a timely reminder: when women rise, economies thrive.