The European Union has taken a further step in advancing women’s participation in Nigeria’s digital economy with the introduction of the Women Venture Studio Digital Innovation Hub in Kano. The hub, unveiled last week, is designed to improve opportunities for women-led enterprises by offering skills development, market access and stronger professional networks across northern Nigeria.
Officials involved in the launch described the initiative as an important development for economic inclusion in a region where digital technologies are rapidly reshaping business activity. With emphasis on digital skills, sustainable business models and circular fashion, the new platform aims to connect technology and creativity to prepare women for emerging economic opportunities.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Inga Stefanowicz, highlighted the value of joint efforts behind the project. “The EU is proud to be behind this initiative, but it is the local partners, like GIZ and others, who are truly bringing this vision to life. We are here to support, but it is you, the innovators, the entrepreneurs and the communities, who will carry this work forward,” she said.
Stefanowicz noted Kano’s longstanding commercial significance and its growing relevance in Nigeria’s digital landscape. “Kano is a cultural melting pot, known for its creativity and now poised to become a centre for digital innovation. The Women Venture Studio is an example of how we can bring together the richness of local heritage and the transformative power of technology to drive economic growth and women’s empowerment,” she added.
Reflecting on the work behind the project, the Lead Partner of the Women Venture Studio, Mariam Lawan Gwadabe, described the hub as a result of determination and partnerships. “Nothing truly worthwhile ever comes easily, and this is a lesson that has guided me throughout this journey. As we launch the Women Venture Studio today, it is a testament to years of dedication, collaboration and the unwavering belief that we can create something transformative for women in northern Nigeria,” she said.
Gwadabe emphasised the link between circular fashion and Kano’s textile history. “Kano has long been known as the Manchester of textiles in West Africa. With the Women Venture Studio, our goal is to revive this legacy, using digital technologies and circular economy principles to empower women entrepreneurs in the fashion industry and create sustainable opportunities,” she added.
The Country Lead at the Digital Transformation Centre Nigeria, Thuweba Diwali, represented by Daniel Ritter, described the initiative as a targeted commitment to inclusive growth. “With the establishment of the Women Venture Studio, we are proud to have taken another step towards a well-equipped supporting structure for MSMEs in Kano and the northwest region of Nigeria,” he said.
Kano Deputy Governor, Aminu Gwarzo, reiterated the state government’s approach to expanding women’s economic access. “Empowering women is not just a policy for us. It is a catalyst for Kano State’s digital future. Our full support for the Women Venture Studio Digital Innovation Hub reflects our commitment to ensuring that women stand at the forefront of innovation, entrepreneurship and lasting economic growth,” he said.
He added that the state is strengthening digital skills for women across all 44 local government areas. “We believe their ideas, resilience and leadership will shape a more inclusive and technologically advanced Kano State. Initiatives like the Women Venture Studio and SheCode embody the future we are building, one where no woman is left behind.”
Officials said the launch forms part of the EU’s wider digital transformation and private sector development work in Nigeria, with the long-term aim of demonstrating how investment in women’s innovation can support sustainable growth across the country.
