By Juliet Umeh

LAPO Microfinance Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to women’s economic empowerment as it marks the 2026 International Women’s Day, IWD, with a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening financial inclusion and supporting women entrepreneurs nationwide.

The bank said this year’s celebration, themed “Give to Gain,” underscores the importance of investing in women as a catalyst for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

In a statement, the bank noted that the commemoration would feature strategic programmes designed to deepen access to finance, knowledge and opportunities for women across the country.

According to the bank, “The theme ‘Give to Gain’ reflects our belief that sustained investment in women yields far-reaching benefits for families, communities and the broader economy.”

It added that activities lined up for the celebration include internal engagements to honour female staff, the annual LAPO Women Leadership Awards, and collaborations with key partners, including the Guardian Women Festival.

Speaking ahead of the event, Director of Marketing and Communication, LAPO Microfinance Bank, Mrs. Oluremi Akande, said the institution remains committed to advancing women’s financial inclusion through innovation and partnerships.

“Women remain at the core of our mission and impact. Under this year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain,’ we are reminded that investing in women’s economic advancement delivers shared prosperity,” she said.

Akande added: “International Women’s Day provides an important opportunity to strengthen our support for women by equipping them with the financial tools, knowledge and partnerships they need to succeed.”

She explained that the bank’s IWD 2026 programme would also include a webinar to showcase success stories of women-led micro and small businesses, as well as strategic collaborations with development partners and stakeholders.

“We are also leveraging media engagement to amplify impact stories and highlight the critical role women play in driving inclusive growth and community transformation,” she said.

The bank further noted that its long-standing focus on women has remained central to its operations over the years.

“For decades, women have represented a significant share of our customer base. Through microcredit, savings, insurance and non-financial services, we continue to support millions of women in building sustainable businesses and improving household income,” it stated.

LAPO MfB added that its initiatives are designed not only to empower women financially but also to strengthen local enterprise development and contribute to national economic growth.

“As we mark IWD 2026, we remain committed to creating more opportunities for women and ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive in today’s economy,” the bank said.