President of the Nigerian-Turkish Business Council, Dele Kelvin Oye, Esq., has advocated increased investment in women and youth-led enterprises across Nigeria, describing them as critical catalysts for inclusive economic growth and sustainable national development.
Oye, who is also the honorary life vice-president and 22nd national president of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), as well as former chairman of the Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN), made the call in Owerri, Imo State, during the Youth and Women Day celebration organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to commemorate the agency’s 25th anniversary.
Speaking while delivering a keynote address at the high-level forum attended by stakeholders from government, the private sector, development agencies, civil society, and emerging entrepreneurs, Oye stressed the urgency of multi-sectoral collaboration to unlock the economic potential of young people and women, particularly in the strategic areas of trade, technology, and education.
He noted that empowering these groups would not only reduce unemployment and poverty but also position Nigeria as a competitive player in the global economy.
Oye further urged policymakers and business leaders to create enabling environments, including access to finance, mentorship, and digital infrastructure, to drive innovation and inclusive growth across all regions of the country.
Oye who called on federal and state governments to adopt policies that promote access to capital, innovation hubs, skills acquisition, and inclusive economic frameworks that reflect the needs and aspirations of women and young people noted, “As President of the Nigerian-Turkish Business Council, I want to assure you that partnerships between Nigeria and Türkiye—and other global allies are actively working to open new doors in trade, education, and investment.
“Our goal is to ensure that women and youth-led businesses benefit directly from these global linkages. We are promoting technology transfer, capacity building, and bilateral trade to empower those at the grassroots.”
He underscored the need for deliberate policies that support gender inclusion and youth empowerment, noting that innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth can only be achieved when these critical demographics are prioritized.
Oye reiterated the need to expand the scope of women and youth empowerment programmes by the commission.
Oye also encouraged private sector actors, governments and organizations to work closely with local communities in co-creating scalable solutions that can lift millions out of poverty.
