Nigeria’s insurance sector is witnessing another push toward female-led enterprise development as NEM Insurance Plc has announced the commencement of the third edition of its flagship gender-focused initiative, “She Means Business.”
The annual contest opened on 16 February 2026 and will run through 28 February 2026, providing a platform for women entrepreneurs across the country to compete for financial grants aimed at scaling their businesses.
Designed as a corporate social responsibility initiative, the programme underscores the underwriter’s commitment to advancing entrepreneurship and deepening financial inclusion among women. According to the company, three outstanding female business owners will each receive a cash grant of N250,000 to expand their operations in this year’s edition.
Speaking on the initiative, the General Manager, Corporate Services, Mrs. Mojisola Teluwo, described the contest as a strategic intervention targeted at grassroots economic empowerment. She noted that beyond underwriting risks, the company remains committed to strengthening the communities in which it operates.
“At NEM Insurance, our mission extends beyond providing world-class insurance products; we are deeply invested in the growth of the communities we serve. The ‘She Means Business’ contest, now in its third phase, is our practical way of inspiring inclusion,” she said.
Teluwo emphasised the vital role women play in Nigeria’s economic landscape, adding that the N250,000 grant for each winner is intended to serve as a financial catalyst to help transform viable ideas into sustainable enterprises.
To encourage creativity and broaden participation, the insurer has introduced a simplified digital entry process. Prospective participants are required to create and share a one-minute video on social media, outlining specific steps they would take to accelerate their business growth.
Industry observers say initiatives such as “She Means Business” reflect a growing trend among insurance firms to reposition themselves as active partners in socio-economic development. By supporting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), particularly those led by women, the programme is seen as contributing to job creation, inclusive growth and a more resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria.