Women are central to Nigeria’s agricultural and commercial sectors. From cultivating food and managing agricultural value chains to running small businesses and navigating local markets, women contribute significantly to economic development. Yet, many continue to face barriers to finance, training, market access, representation, and business growth.
The Association of Women in Trade and Agriculture (AWITA) is committed to changing this reality by creating opportunities for women to develop their skills, strengthen their businesses, and participate more effectively in Nigeria’s economic landscape.
With a presence across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), AWITA works to advance the interests of women in trade and agriculture through training, empowerment, exposure, and mentorship. Its activities span the country’s six geopolitical zones, reflecting a commitment to inclusive development and grassroots participation.
At the heart of AWITA’s work is a simple but powerful conviction: when women have access to the right opportunities, resources, knowledge, and support, they can build stronger enterprises, improve livelihoods, and contribute more meaningfully to national development.
Our Roots: From Shared Struggles to Collective Strength
AWITA emerged from the recognition that women working in trade and agriculture often encounter persistent economic and structural challenges despite their essential contributions to society.
Many women farmers work hard to sustain agricultural production but lack adequate access to resources and opportunities. Traders face changing market conditions and financial constraints, while women entrepreneurs must often navigate barriers that limit their ability to expand their businesses and compete effectively.
These challenges highlight the importance of collective action, advocacy, and practical support.
AWITA represents a commitment to bringing women together to address these concerns, amplify their voices, and create pathways towards greater economic participation. Rather than viewing women merely as beneficiaries of development, the association recognises them as active contributors, business leaders, agricultural producers, and agents of change.
Through collaboration and shared purpose, AWITA seeks to strengthen the capacity of women to overcome barriers, pursue opportunities, and build more resilient economic futures.
The T.E.E.M. Approach: Training, Empowerment, Exposure and Mentorship
A defining feature of AWITA’s work is its T.E.E.M. approach — Training, Empowerment, Exposure and Mentorship. This framework reflects the association’s commitment to equipping women with the knowledge, opportunities, and support needed to succeed in trade and agriculture.
Training
Training helps women strengthen their business knowledge, improve their practical skills, and understand the opportunities available within their sectors. Through capacity-building initiatives, AWITA promotes learning that can support better business decisions, improved productivity, and sustainable growth.
Empowerment
Economic empowerment is essential to building independence and resilience. AWITA seeks to support women in developing their capabilities, strengthening their enterprises, and pursuing opportunities that can improve their livelihoods and economic participation.
Exposure
Exposure connects women to wider opportunities, networks, markets, and development initiatives. By encouraging engagement and collaboration, AWITA seeks to help women broaden their perspectives, discover new possibilities, and position their businesses for growth.
Mentorship
Mentorship provides guidance, encouragement, and the opportunity to learn from experience. Through a culture of support and shared knowledge, AWITA promotes the development of women who can grow their enterprises, support others, and contribute to the advancement of women in their communities.
Together, these four pillars express AWITA’s commitment to supporting women beyond immediate assistance by promoting knowledge, capability, confidence, and long-term development.