More than 100 Muslim women entrepreneurs are preparing to organise a trade fair aimed at empowering women-led businesses, strengthening local enterprises, and contributing to the economic growth of Kwara State.

The convener of the group, Fatimah Saliu, addressed journalists yesterday in Ilorin, the state capital, regarding the upcoming "Muslimah Entrepreneurs Trade Fair." She stated that Muslim women entrepreneurs are dedicated to transforming the business narrative for women involved in halal (lawful) businesses.

According to Saliu, the initiative is designed to create a platform where women can showcase their products and services while promoting ethical business practices within the community.

Saliu, who said that women contribute significantly to household income, food security, manufacturing, services, and creative industries in the state, however, lamented that many of these businesses remain informal, unseen, and unsupported.

"This trade fair is not just about buying and selling. It is a purpose-driven platform created to address a real gap we see every day women running viable businesses but lacking visibility, structured markets, and access to opportunities that allow them to scale sustainably.

"At this trade fair, over 30,000 participants and attendees will experience a well-organised marketplace that brings together businesses from diverse sectors food and beverages, fashion, beauty, agro-processing, services, creative industries, and more.

"It will also serve as a space for networking, brand exposure, partnership building, and community engagement", she said.

Saliu, said that though the initiative is Muslimah-led and values-driven, the trade fair is open to all vendors and the general public.

She said that the fair would take place before the forthcoming Ramadan season, adding that it is expected to serve the purpose of pre-Ramadan, Ramadan and Eid -el- Fitr shopping slated between January and February, 2026.

"Our guiding principles are ethical business practices, quality products, professionalism, and inclusivity.

"We are intentional about structure, order, and impact. Our goal is not a one-off event, but the foundation of a recurring economic platform that supports small and medium enterprises, creates employment, and encourages local production," Saliu said.

She called on policymakers, institutions, and private stakeholders to partner with the women entrepreneurs in amplifying the vision.