By Moses Nosike

As Nigeria strives for economic growth, one thing is clear; women’s empowerment is key. At a convening of stakeholders in commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026, hosted by the United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria (UNGCNN), FirstBank Group Executive, Corporate Banking and Chairperson, FirstBank Women Network, Olaitan Martins, delivered a stirring call to action – gender equality must move beyond promises into measurable impact.

In her goodwill message on the theme, “Bridging the Gender Gap: Turning Intent to Impact”, Martins highlighted FirstBank’s deep commitment as a signatory to the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs), embedding equality into governance, lending, and leadership. Internally, the FirstBank Women Network is cultivating female leaders through mentorship and career development, with women already making up 43% of the workforce and 31% of management roles”.

“Externally, FirstBank is tackling one of the biggest barriers for women entrepreneurs which is access to capital. Through its FirstGem Fund, the bank offers single-digit interest rate loans to women-led businesses without collateral requirements. In 2025, the bank disbursed ₦48 billion in loans to women-led businesses.

However, Martins calls on the financial sector to take action, sign and report against the WEPs; redesign lending products with women in mind, and invest in internal networks and sponsorship for women”.
Other speakers at the event include Naomi Nwokolo, CEO/Executive Director of UNGCNN, Mrs Uto Ukpanah, Board Chairman of UNGCNN, Barr Chioma Uzodinma, First Lady of Imo State, Mrs Folashade Bada Ambrose-Medebem, Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Lagos State, among others.

“The time for intentions is over; it’s time for impact. By empowering women, Nigeria can unlock economic growth and development and FirstBank is leading the way. As Kofi Annan said, “There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women.” Let’s make it a mandate”.