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By Sunday Ani
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Wema Bank, Moruf Oseni, has reiterated the bank’s commitment to gender inclusion, noting that empowering women remains critical to the country’s economic growth and sustainable development.
He made the statement in his address during a programme organised by the bank to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day.
Anchored on the 2026 International Women’s Day themed, “Give To Gain,” the event’s discussions centred on the topic, “When Women Gain, We Grow.”
Speakers examined the role of investment, mentorship and institutional support in advancing opportunities for women as well as addressing gender inequality.
The programme, held yesterday in Lagos, brought together government officials, development partners, professionals and entertainers to discuss women’s empowerment and gender inclusion.
The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, alongside filmmaker Funke Akindele, singer Waje, dancer Kaffy, drummer Ara and vocalist Yinka Davies, were among notable personalities who attended the event.
Also in attendance were the UN Women Resident Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Beatrice Eyong; television anchor, Olive Emodi and actor Daniel Etim Effiong, among other guests.
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Oseni cited global data indicating that a significant number of women still live in extreme poverty, attributing the trend partly to gaps in gender inclusion.
He noted that expanding women’s economic participation would have positive effects on households, businesses and national economies, adding that the bank has continued to implement initiatives targeted at supporting women within and outside its customer base.
“The global advocacy for gender equality is a fundamental pillar upon which our collective progress rests. As of 2025, the UN Women body reported that 10 percent of women live in extreme poverty, and this number has not improved since 2020.
It is projected that by 2030, over 350 million women and girls could still be trapped in extreme poverty. This is not because women aren’t working. It’s a ripple effect of the gap that still exists in gender inclusion; a dilemma that plagues not just the women but the society. Imagine what economic prosperity would look like if every woman became economically active. This is one of the visions that drive us at Wema Bank.
“The truth is, investing in women is investing in the economy and society at large. The more we give to women, the more we bridge prevalent gaps and accelerate economic prosperity. At Wema Bank, we have been intentional about this, both to our internal and external customers and the result? Thousands of women have been empowered to make a meaningful societal impact and empower other women.
“Today, I take this opportunity, not just to remind us of the importance of giving to women, but to firmly reiterate that Wema Bank will never relent in its quest to continue supporting women, meeting their needs and journeying with them, all the way”, he stated.
Highlights of the event were the ‘SARA Gives to Empower Her Award,’ which recognised five women supporting other women through measurable initiatives and the ‘He For She Award’ that was presented to five male employees acknowledged for promoting women’s empowerment in the workplace.
Another highlight of the programme was the launch of the Wema Bank Girl Child Journal, a publication containing contributions from 80 professionals offering guidance and reflections for young girls.
