The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting inclusive economic growth and sustainable development across Nigeria, with a particular focus on empowering women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in green manufacturing and energy transition.
The renewed pledge was made by the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter, during the second edition of W.O.M.A.N by Alitheia—a high-level forum hosted by Alitheia Capital in partnership with Manufacturing Africa, a UK government initiative aimed at driving foreign direct investment into Africa’s manufacturing sector.
Held under the theme “Scaling Sustainable Manufacturing & Energy Transition for Women-led SMEs in Africa,” the forum convened women entrepreneurs, industry leaders, investors, and policymakers to examine clean energy adoption as a catalyst for sustainable industrial transformation.
Mr. Baxter, in his address, emphasized the UK’s dedication to expanding access to capital and capacity for women-led businesses navigating rising energy costs and climate challenges. “We are proud to collaborate with Alitheia Capital on W.O.M.A.N. to drive Africa’s green industrial future. Women are vital to this transition, and we are committed to fostering inclusive, transformative growth through investment and strategic partnerships,” he said.
Insights from Alitheia Capital’s portfolio reveal that renewable energy adoption has helped businesses reduce operational costs by up to 60%, making sustainability a financially sound strategy.
Co-founder and Managing Partner of Alitheia Capital, Tokunboh Ishmael, stressed the urgency of the green transition: “Sustainability is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Through W.O.M.A.N, we’re not just highlighting solutions; we’re scaling them.”
The event featured prominent speakers and panelists including Yemisi Iranloye (Psaltry), Affiong Williams (ReelFruit), Temilola Adepetun (SKLD), James Fabola (Arnergy Solar), Bukola Badmos (Starsight Energy), and Sarah Ogbewey (Sterling Bank).
Alitheia Capital used the platform to launch Nzinga, a new capacity-building initiative for SMEs, while Manufacturing Africa unveiled its Green Business Building (GBB) accelerator to support the growth of green enterprises and foster job creation in the clean manufacturing space.
The forum concluded with exhibitions, knowledge sessions on ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) practices, and a strong call to action for increased investment, ecosystem development, and supportive policy frameworks to drive inclusive green industrialization in Nigeria.
