Empowering Women. Transforming Procurement.

Documenting the legacy and impact of the SWEEP initiative across Nigeria

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765

Women Entrepreneurs Trained

3

High-Level Conferences Held

61%

Reported Improved Procurement Capacity

About the SWEEP Initiative

The SWEEP program was designed to tackle systemic barriers that prevented women entrepreneurs from accessing Nigeria’s vast procurement opportunities.

  • Low awareness of bidding processes
  • Limited access to capital and certification
  • Lack of representation in procurement dialogues

SWEEP provided a 4-week hybrid training to over 700 women across two cohorts, hosted multi-sector conferences, and engaged stakeholders across the private and public sectors to advocate for inclusive procurement reform.

Real Women. Real Transformation.

Hear from SWEEP participants on how the program helped them break barriers and chart new paths.

“Before SWEEP, I didn’t know how to even register for a procurement bid. Now, I’ve applied for three and am preparing my fourth proposal.”
– Ngozi, Cohort 1 Participant
“The mentorship and visibility I received helped me secure my first contract. SWEEP opened doors I didn’t know existed.”
– Hauwa, Cohort 2 Participant

Oluseyi Kemi Bola Mercy

Founder, God’s Backing Nigeria Ltd.

“SWEEP was an eye-opener...”

“It was an eye-opener,” she said, reflecting on her journey through the program. “I discovered so many things that used to feel like barriers, and I now feel more equipped to face them and get great jobs done successfully.”

“Procurement practices stood out for me,” she shared. “Before now, I didn’t know how to bid for contracts, but the mentorship helped me understand the process step by step.”

The program helped her confront doubts and uncertainties that once held her back, and now, she’s ready to take bold steps toward bigger opportunities in public procurement.

Elizabeth Essiene

Founder, Elibas Peace International Ltd.

“It really opened my eyes...”

“It really opened my eyes,” she said, reflecting on the impact of the mentorship. “I got the information and guidance I needed on how to get NAFDAC and other compliance documents.”

“Before now, I didn’t even know where to start,” she shared. “But the program broke it down for me, step by step, and I now feel more confident in getting my business properly registered and compliant.”

With the tools and knowledge gained from the mentorship, Elizabeth is now taking bold steps to ensure her products meet regulatory standards and can compete in larger markets.

Aishatu M. Kyari

MD, Asheehay (Interior Decor & Furniture)

“The program helped me win contracts...”

“The program provided me with valuable knowledge on how to effectively bid for procurement opportunities. As a result, I have successfully won procurement contracts,” she shared.

Since completing bidding tasks with UNDP and UNHCR, Aishatu has actively pursued new contract opportunities — including bids for the supply of livelihood equipment in Kaduna and Katsina states, and another for perimeter fencing and hostel renovation at the Police Training Institute in Edo State.

Beyond technical skills, Aishatu highlights the power of the SWEEP community: “Connecting with like-minded individuals who share similar challenges and aspirations has created a supportive space for collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing,” she added.

Through SWEEP, she has not only advanced her business but built meaningful relationships that continue to open new doors.