IWD: Sanwo-Olu’s Wife Champions Women’s Empowerment Support

Celebrating Women’s Empowerment and Economic Growth

The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has praised Wema Bank for its long-term efforts in promoting women’s empowerment and fostering inclusive economic growth in Nigeria. This commendation was made during the bank’s 2026 International Women’s Day celebration, which took place in Lagos.

The event, considered one of the largest International Women’s Day gatherings within the banking sector, brought together a wide range of dignitaries, public figures, and women leaders from various sectors. The gathering focused on discussions about women’s empowerment and economic inclusion, highlighting the importance of these issues in today’s society.

During her speech at the event, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu commended the leadership of Wema Bank for consistently launching programs that support women and drive inclusive growth. She also shared goodwill from the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

“I am pleased to be associated with today’s gathering, an initiative of Wema Bank to commemorate this year’s International Women’s Day and celebrate women,” she said.

She further emphasized that the leadership of Wema Bank has been a consistent champion of initiatives that empower women and promote inclusive growth in the society. According to her, financial inclusion is a crucial tool for advancing women’s economic empowerment. Access to credit, savings, investments, and digital banking solutions allows women to expand their businesses, support their families, and contribute to national development.

Mrs. Sanwo-Olu also commended the bank for developing products and platforms that address the specific financial needs of women, helping them build economic confidence.

“As a state, every initiative we have curated to support women stems from the realisation that our women deserve the best,” she said. “When a woman is empowered or given opportunities, the benefits extend far beyond her immediate sphere of influence.”

She stressed that women’s empowerment requires ongoing commitment from various stakeholders, including government, financial institutions, corporate organizations, civil society groups, and families. She expressed hope that the gathering would encourage deeper collaboration and innovative ideas aimed at building a society where women have equal opportunities to thrive.

“Empowerment is not a one-day conversation,” she added. “It requires sustained commitment. I hope this gathering will spark deeper collaboration, bolder ideas, and renewed determination to build a society where no woman is left behind.”

A Diverse Line-Up of Notable Personalities

The event featured a diverse line-up of notable personalities, including the UN Women Resident Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Beatrice Eyong; filmmaker Funke Akindele; television host Morayo Afolabi-Brown; singer Waje; dancer and creative entrepreneur Kaffy; vocalist Yinka Davies; drummer Ara; television anchor Olive Emodi; and actor Daniel Etim Effiong.

Participants also examined this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” alongside the bank’s discussion topic, “When Women Gain, We Grow.” These themes highlighted the broader social and economic impact of empowering women.