Citibank has flagged off its Third annual Diversity week for in over 54 countries in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region.

According to a statement signed by Ms. Ogochukwu Ekezie, spokesperson for Citibank Nigeria, the Diversity week for the year 2010, which commenced Monday, was established to raise awareness on diversity issues and promote tolerance within Citi, which has over 200,000 employees in more than 140 countries.

She noted that the theme for 2010 is unconscious bias, which will address how employees can work together to eliminate bias within the organisation. Several thought provoking events will run during the week to demonstrate how and when unconscious bias can occur and how to consciously value and appreciate difference.

She said, “Citibank Nigeria Limited (Citi Nigeria) will host a number of activities including ’Bring your child to work day,’ which will feature an art and essay competition, and a fathers’ workshop, which will address work-life balance issues for working fathers and future fathers.”

The statement quoted Mr. Emeka Emuwa, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Citibank Nigeria as saying, “Citi Nigeria is made up of more than 250 unique individuals from different cultures, tribes, and social circumstances. Each morning we all come together to interact and do business for the benefit of our customers.

“Diversity week will help us gain a better understanding of one another while promoting a conducive and professional work environment.

“Citi believes that a diverse workplace means creating teams of people with diverse thinking and backgrounds who work together to leverage innovation and creativity to produce best-in-class solutions for clients.”