VFD Group, DLM Asset Management Support Women Entrepreneurs at BWIT Connect 2026

Women leaders gathered in Lagos on March 13, 2026, for the Business Women in International Trade (BWIT) Connect 2026, a forum focused on unlocking global trade opportunities.

In a statement, it was noted that the event brought together business leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to explore how women-led businesses and initiatives can expand beyond the local markets.

It also stated that the event was organised by 234Finance in collaboration with the Deputy High Commission of Canada in Lagos and the Nigerian Canadian Alumni Association (NCAA), the event offered a space for women leaders to share experiences, discuss export readiness, and explore strategies for scaling their initiatives globally.

It also noted that financial institutions are increasingly stepping forward to support women leaders seeking to expand into international markets. That message was central to discussions at BWIT Connect 2026, where participants explored how partnerships and institutional support can help women overcome barriers to international trade.

Sponsors, VFD Group and DLM Asset Management, actively joined these conversations, highlighting how organisations can remove barriers and provide meaningful support.

Managing Director of DLM Asset Management, Kelechi Eke, highlighted the importance of creating platforms where women stepping into leadership roles can exchange ideas and access opportunities.

“Global trade is expanding and we are seeing more women stepping up in business, in financial services, and in their careers in the corporate world. The question is how we continue to support that growth and ensure women take the lead.”

Programmes and Partnerships Lead at 234Finance, Tolu Olawumi, emphasized the value of collaboration and partnerships in making the event impactful.

“We created this event to bring women together and explore how partnerships can support them. Collaborating with sponsors, ecosystem leaders, and industry stakeholders allows us to provide meaningful connections and opportunities for women leaders to scale their initiatives globally.”

Head of Retail Banking at VBank, Adatugo Oyebanji, noted that Nigerian women are already active participants in the marketplace but need stronger institutional support to expand internationally.

“Women are ready. Nigerian women are not waiting. They are already in the markets, they are competing and they are trading. What we need now is to enable them, empower them, and help them build partnerships with business organisations, financial institutions, and regulators involved in international trade.

234Finance continues to convene stakeholders across finance, trade and policy to ensure women entrepreneurs have access to knowledge, partnerships and resources needed to compete in global markets.

Through BWIT Connect 2026, partners, sponsors and ecosystem leaders reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing women’s economic participation and strengthening trade corridors between Nigeria, Canada and global markets.