NEM Insurance Plc is sending a powerful message to Nigerian women entrepreneurs: it’s time to move beyond survival businesses and embrace professional structures that can scale into global enterprises.
The call came from Andrew Ikekhua, Managing Director and CEO of NEM Insurance, during the 2026 ‘She Means Business’ contest presentation ceremony in Lagos. Ikekhua encouraged women to adopt technical discipline, strategic planning, and robust frameworks to thrive in today’s complex economic environment.
“Please keep pushing boundaries, keep breaking barriers, and keep striving. Starting and keeping a business running smoothly is hardly ever easy, especially in today’s environment. But you are capable of greatness. Your strength inspires others, and your voice matters,” Ikekhua said.
Celebrating Female Entrepreneurship
The event marked the climax of the third edition of the ‘She Means Business’ initiative, NEM Insurance’s flagship programme designed to provide tangible support to women-led enterprises.
After a rigorous selection process, three outstanding entrepreneurs were awarded cash grants of ₦250,000 each to upscale their businesses:
- Dorcas Egbedara Opeoluwa – Perfume Production
- Chisom Kanu – Footwear Merchant
- Eniola Robert Mary – Fashion Design
From Seed Capital to Sustainable Growth
Addressing the winners, Ikekhua emphasised that while the grants act as a financial catalyst, long-term business success depends on professional structures and risk management. He highlighted the importance of safeguarding ventures against both predictable and unforeseen risks.
“To ensure business continuity and survival, it is important that you secure your business against risks that may occur during operations. At NEM Insurance, we offer products and services that mitigate business risk,” he added.
The message was clear: capital alone isn’t enough—entrepreneurs must pair it with discipline, structure, and insurance coverage to build sustainable enterprises.
Beyond Applause: Real Impact for Women Entrepreneurs
Mojisola Teluwo, General Manager of Corporate Services at NEM, reinforced the initiative’s practical approach:
“The ‘She Means Business’ contest is our way of inspiring inclusion. We recognise the pivotal role women play in the economy, and we are proud to provide this financial catalyst to help visionary women turn their business aspirations into reality.”
The ceremony ended with a charge for all women to embrace professional frameworks and insurance solutions, ensuring they can scale beyond grassroots operations into ventures that reshape Nigeria’s economic landscape.
For the winners, the grant represents more than just funding—it’s a vote of confidence in their potential to transform ideas into impactful, sustainable businesses.