The Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, has charged the NECA Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW) to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the economy, particularly those arising from technology, innovation, changing markets and new business models.

Oyerinde gave the charge at the NNEW 20th annual general meeting and the ratification of the appointment of Bolanle Edwards as the substantive president of NNEW in Lagos .

He commended NNEW for its sustained contribution to the development of women entrepreneurs and the broader private sector.

The director-general urged the network to keep looking ahead, identify new opportunities and position itself to take advantage of them, while ensuring that its initiatives delivered measurable outcomes and tangible value to members.

The forum attracted women entrepreneurs, business leaders, partners and other stakeholders to mark two decades of enterprise development, women’s economic empowerment and leadership.

In her speech, NNEW’s sixth president, Edwards, thanked members for the confidence reposed in her and acknowledged the contributions and sacrifices of the network’s founding executives and past leaders.

Edwards pledged purposeful leadership anchored on commitment, fairness, transparency and accountability, while building on the achievements of previous administrations.

She assured members that the new leadership would prioritise initiatives that create greater opportunities, strengthen NNEW’s relevance and deliver tangible value to women entrepreneurs.

Also speaking, the Chairperson of the NNEW Governing Council, Fayo Williams, congratulated the network on reaching its 20th anniversary and reflected on the significance of the milestone.

She reiterated the need for stronger institutional capacity, deeper collaboration among members and stakeholders, and a more responsive network capable of addressing emerging opportunities and challenges facing women entrepreneurs.

Williams urged members to strengthen the institution, deepen collaboration and position the network to respond effectively to emerging opportunities and challenges.

A member of the network, Eniola Mayowa, also expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their continued commitment to the growth and development of NNEW.

She assured members that the current leadership would continue to seek support from members and key stakeholders to achieve greater success in the years ahead.