Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Lagos, Nigeria – Prominent Nigerian figures including Lagos State First Lady Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and award-winning filmmaker Funke Akindele have called for deliberate and strategic investment in women as a crucial pathway to strengthening economic growth, expanding opportunities and accelerating social progress. Their remarks were delivered during a major International Women’s Day 2026 gathering hosted by Wema Bank in Lagos, where leaders from government, business, development organisations and the entertainment industry converged to discuss gender inclusion and women’s empowerment.
The event formed part of global activities marking International Women’s Day and was organised around the 2026 theme “Give To Gain,” with discussions framed under the conversation topic “When Women Gain, We Grow.” Participants examined how strategic investment, institutional support and mentorship programmes can help unlock the economic potential of women while reducing long-standing gender inequalities that affect societies worldwide.
Addressing the audience, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu praised Wema Bank for its sustained commitment to programmes that promote women’s empowerment and inclusive economic development. She emphasised that financial inclusion remains one of the most powerful tools for advancing women’s economic independence and improving living standards for families and communities. According to her, access to financial services such as credit facilities, savings accounts, investment platforms and digital banking solutions enables women to expand businesses, support households and contribute meaningfully to national economic growth.
The Lagos First Lady also highlighted that empowering women produces a multiplier effect that benefits the wider society. When women receive opportunities to grow economically, she explained, the benefits extend beyond individuals to families, local communities and national economies. She stressed that sustainable empowerment requires collaboration among governments, financial institutions, corporate organisations and civil society groups working toward the common goal of ensuring that women are not excluded from development opportunities.
Reflecting on her personal experience, Funke Akindele spoke candidly about the discipline and sacrifices that often accompany professional success. She noted that many people celebrate visible achievements but rarely see the intense dedication required behind the scenes. According to the actress and producer, building a successful career demanded years of commitment and the willingness to sacrifice personal leisure time in order to pursue long-term goals. Her remarks resonated strongly with younger participants at the forum who viewed her journey as an example of perseverance and ambition.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Wema Bank, Moruf Oseni, also addressed participants and emphasised that empowering women is fundamental to achieving sustainable development. He cited global data indicating that a significant proportion of women continue to face economic hardship due to persistent gaps in gender inclusion. According to figures referenced at the event, about 10 percent of women worldwide currently live in extreme poverty, and projections suggest that more than 350 million women and girls could remain trapped in poverty by 2030 if current disparities persist.
Oseni argued that increasing women’s participation in economic activities would significantly strengthen national economies, boost productivity and create stronger households and communities. He stressed that investing in women is not merely a social initiative but a strategic economic decision capable of driving prosperity across societies.
The gathering attracted a diverse group of prominent personalities from across Nigeria’s public and private sectors. Among those in attendance were singer Waje, dancer and creative entrepreneur Kaffy, vocalist Yinka Davies, drummer Ara, television anchor Olive Emodi and actor Daniel Etim Effiong. Representatives from international development organisations were also present, including officials from the United Nations Women office in Nigeria.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the SARA Gives to Empower Her Award, an initiative designed to recognise women who are actively empowering others through measurable community and social impact initiatives. Five award recipients received grants to help expand their programmes and strengthen their efforts in supporting other women across different sectors.
The organisers also introduced the He For She Award, presented to male employees of the bank who have demonstrated commitment to advancing gender equality and supporting women within their workplace environment. The recognition highlighted the importance of male allies in the broader struggle for gender equity and inclusive leadership.
Another key moment during the forum was the unveiling of the Wema Bank Girl Child Journal, a publication that features insights, reflections and professional advice from about eighty professionals across multiple industries. The journal was designed as a mentorship resource intended to inspire young girls and provide practical guidance on leadership, career development and personal growth.
Beyond the awards and recognitions, discussions throughout the event focused on how investment, mentorship and policy support can expand opportunities for women and address structural inequalities that limit their progress. Speakers emphasised that bridging gender gaps in education, finance and employment would not only improve women’s lives but also accelerate economic transformation across developing nations.
Participants agreed that empowering women should remain a priority for governments, financial institutions and development organisations seeking sustainable economic growth. The conversation reinforced the idea that gender equality is not only a social justice issue but also a key driver of innovation, productivity and prosperity.
As global celebrations of International Women’s Day continue, the Lagos forum underscored the growing consensus that societies flourish when women are given equal access to resources, leadership opportunities and economic participation. For advocates and policymakers alike, the message from the gathering was clear: investing in women is essential to building stronger economies, more resilient communities and a more inclusive future.
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