Women at the Heart of Nigeria’s Economic Future

Women play a central role in Nigeria’s economic and social development. They are traders, farmers, caregivers, and community leaders—often carrying the weight of family and business responsibilities simultaneously. Yet despite their essential contributions, women across rural Nigeria remain significantly excluded from formal financial systems, limiting their ability to grow sustainable livelihoods.

At Deris Empowerment Initiatives, we exist to change this reality. Guided by our mission to provide collateral-free microloans and expand economic opportunities for the economically active poor, we work to create a future where every woman has the financial tools, confidence, and support she needs to succeed. Our vision is rooted in empowerment—not just through capital, but through dignity, knowledge, and community.

The Gender Gap in Financial Inclusion

Across Nigeria, millions of women continue to face barriers that prevent them from fully participating in the economy. These include limited access to credit, lack of collateral, cultural norms, and low financial literacy. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria, women remain less financially included than men, with many unable to access even basic financial services [CBN Financial Inclusion Report].

This exclusion is not only a personal burden—it has national implications. The World Bank reports that closing gender gaps in economic participation could significantly increase GDP and reduce poverty levels across Africa [World Bank, 2023]. When women thrive economically, their families, communities, and the entire nation benefit.

Why Women’s Economic Empowerment Matters

Women’s empowerment is more than a development slogan; it is one of the most effective strategies for creating long-term social and economic progress.

Empowered women:

Invest a greater share of their income in their families

Improve children’s education, nutrition, and health

Build more resilient households

Create employment opportunities in their communities

Strengthen peace and stability at the local level

Research from UN Women shows that women reinvest up to 90% of their income back into their households, compared to 30–40% for men [UN Women, 2022]. This means empowering a woman often leads directly to improved welfare for an entire family.