- Lagos First Lady, Funke Akindele, Waje and Others Attend Wema Bank’s IWD 2026 Event
- Also in attendance was the UN Women Resident Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Beatrice Eyong
- Oseni stated that expanding women’s participation in economic activities would generate broader societal benefits
The First Lady of Lagos State, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, joined filmmaker Funke Akindele, singer Waje, dancer Kaffy, drummer Ara and vocalist Yinka Davies at Wema Bank’s International Women’s Day 2026 celebration held in Lagos.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the event, organised as part of activities marking International Women’s Day, brought together government officials, development partners, professionals and entertainment figures to discuss women’s empowerment, economic inclusion and gender equality.
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Also in attendance was the UN Women Resident Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Beatrice Eyong, alongside television anchor Olive Emodi, actor Daniel Etim Effiong and other guests.
This year’s programme was anchored on the global theme “Give To Gain,” with discussions centred on the sub-theme “When Women Gain, We Grow.” Conversations focused on investment in women, mentorship, institutional support and strategies for reducing gender inequality.
In his remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Wema Bank, Moruf Oseni, said empowering women is essential to economic growth and sustainable development. He referenced global data indicating that millions of women still live in extreme poverty, describing gender inclusion as a critical factor in improving outcomes for families, businesses and national economies.
Oseni stated that expanding women’s participation in economic activities would generate broader societal benefits and strengthen long-term prosperity. He added that the bank has continued to introduce initiatives aimed at supporting women both internally and externally, noting that thousands of women have benefited from empowerment programmes designed to encourage entrepreneurship and leadership.
He emphasised that investing in women contributes directly to economic expansion, arguing that increased financial inclusion helps close existing gaps and accelerates development. Oseni reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to sustaining programmes that support women’s growth, participation and leadership.
A key highlight of the event was the SARA Gives to Empower Her Award, which recognised five women who have demonstrated measurable impact in supporting other women. The recipients were awarded grants to further strengthen their initiatives.
