Women entrepreneurs, business leaders, and stakeholders in Ogun State are set to gather in Abeokuta for a strategic fireside meeting aimed at addressing the realities, challenges, and opportunities surrounding business exhibitions.
The event, organised to commemorate International Women’s Day 2026, is themed “Pain & Gain: Navigating the Pain and Prospects of Ogun Business Exhibition.” It is convened by the Publisher of PublicFaces Magazine and a seasoned event planner, Bola Solate of M19 Events Consult.
The meeting is designed to bring together experienced exhibitors, business exhibition pioneers, and emerging women entrepreneurs to engage in a practical and solution-driven discussion on how to maximize the benefits of participating in business exhibitions.
Speaking ahead of the event, the convener, Bola Solate, explained that the initiative seeks to move beyond the glamorous perception often associated with exhibitions and highlight the real challenges faced by many entrepreneurs.
According to her, many women-owned businesses invest significant resources in exhibitions but often struggle with financial risks, logistics, and uncertain returns on investment.
Solate noted that the fireside discussion would provide a platform for participants to share real-life experiences, explore strategies for sustainability and profitability, and identify ways to strengthen women’s participation in the state’s business ecosystem.
“This platform was created to ensure that women do not just show up but scale up. We are transforming shared experiences into strategic insights that can help women grow their businesses,” she said.
The discussion is expected to feature respected voices within the business exhibition ecosystem, offering practical lessons, actionable strategies, and policy-oriented recommendations aimed at supporting women-led enterprises.
Organisers say the event is open to business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, corporate organisations, financial institutions, policymakers, and members of the public interested in advancing women’s economic empowerment in Ogun State.
The fireside meeting will hold on Saturday, March 8, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Choplife Villa, Onikolobo, Abeokuta.
The gathering forms part of activities marking International Women’s Day, with a focus on promoting collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth for women entrepreneurs across Ogun State.
