NBC Grants N2 Million to Female Entrepreneurs at WIMBIZ Conference

Two female entrepreneurs have received a total of N2 million in grants from the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) in recognition of their creativity, resilience, and potential for economic impact.

The grants, N1 million each, were awarded at the annual Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ) conference in Lagos, themed Own. Walk. Nurture. The recipients—Toyibah Shehu Mohammed of FarhM’s Food and Sauce Global Limited and Helen Gabriel of Ogy’s Cakes—emerged as winners of the WIMBIZ Entrepreneurship Masterclass, a platform designed to support high-potential female-led businesses.

Presenting the grants, NBC’s People & Culture Director, Jolomi Fawehinmi, underscored the company’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs. She highlighted the role of women-led businesses in driving economic growth and improving community well-being.

“NBC believes that supporting female entrepreneurs creates a ripple effect of positive impact across the economy and society,” Fawehinmi said. “All participants of the Entrepreneurship Masterclass have shown dedication to growth, innovation, and excellence.”

NBC, which partnered with WIMBIZ for the conference, said the collaboration reinforces its ongoing efforts to promote women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, and inclusion in Nigeria’s business ecosystem.

The event also featured a panel session titled Leading from the Inside Out: Balancing Ambition, Vulnerability & Purpose, where NBC’s Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Oluwasoromidayo George, alongside other women leaders, shared insights on purposeful leadership. Drawing on her corporate experience, George emphasised the importance of authenticity, emotional intelligence, and vulnerability in leadership.

“When we talk about vulnerability, it means being open and confident at work, which fosters trust and connection. Women must show up, stay true to themselves, and lead with integrity and kindness,” George said.

The grants highlight a growing recognition of female entrepreneurship as a driver of economic inclusion and development, with NBC’s support reinforcing the ability of women-led businesses to scale and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economy.