The Association of Professional Women Bankers (APWB) recently hosted a grand soiree at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, to honour the remarkable achievements of its members in 2024. The event, themed “Positioning for Economic Shifts and Global Trends: 2025 and Beyond,” brought together some of the most iconic women in Nigeria’s banking sector, aa well as leaders and professionals from across the financial services. The evening, seamlessly compered by Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani, commenced with the National Anthem and the anthem of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), setting a formal and reflective tone for the event. Dignitaries from the APWB and CIBN graced the occasion, which marked 43 years of the APWB’s impactful contributions to the banking industry.
It was highlighted that the association has consistently empowered women to rise above traditional glass ceilings, producing trailblazers who have become “Amazons” in the sector.
In her welcome address, APWB chairperson, Funke Feyisitan Ladimeji, lauded her colleagues for their resilience and innovation in the financial services sector. She also highlighted the importance of the annual marquee, where the association considers the global, economic, geopolitical and social experiences in the year to date and engages in discourse on thorniest of these to provide deeper indights and proffer solutions.
She emphasized the critical roles of female managing directors in shaping the industry and creating a legacy worth celebrating. “Despite the challenges of the year, this is a time for us to connect and reflect on our shared journey,” she noted.
The keynote address was delivered by Oluseyi Olufeso, executive director of First Bank, on behalf of the bank’s managing director, Segun Alebiosu.
He commended the women for turning the Nigerian banking industry to a global model. Olufeso acknowledged the hurdles they have faced, including brain drain, platform instability, operational glitches and customer service challenges.
He urged the women to remain resilient and to focus on mentoring the next generation of bankers to sustain the sector’s growth.
A highlight of the evening was a thought-provoking panel discussion, titled “The Nigerian Economy in a Global Perspective: Navigating from Policy Recommendation to Concrete Execution.” Panelists reflected on the macroeconomic landscape of 2024 and offered insights on actionable strategies to strengthen Nigeria’s economy in the years ahead.
The event exuded elegance, with sumptuous meals and captivating performances by traditional dance troupes adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The high point of the evening was the recognition of 10 outstanding female managing directors of deposit money banks, who were feted with awards for their exemplary and outstanding contributions to the industry.
The APWB’s 2024 soiree not only celebrated achievements but also inspired a renewed commitment to excellence and leadership in banking, positioning women as key players in navigating future economic shifts.