**Wema Bank Empowers Women, Fuels Economic Growth** In commemoration of International Women's Day 2026, Wema Bank brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, development partners, and industry professionals, to discuss the crucial role women play in driving economic growth and development. The event, held in Lagos, was attended by the crème de la crème of society, including the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, and Nollywood stars like Funke Akindele and Daniel Etim Effiong. The discussion centred around the theme "Give To Gain," with a focus on how women's empowerment can lead to economic growth. The event highlighted the importance of investment, mentorship, and institutional support in bridging the gap in gender inclusion and creating opportunities for women. According to the Managing Director and CEO of Wema Bank, Moruf Oseni, empowering women is critical to economic growth and sustainable development. The statistics are staggering. Despite being a significant force in the economy, a substantial number of women still live in extreme poverty. In fact, UN Women reported that as of 2025, 10% of women globally live in extreme poverty, a number that has not improved since 2020. This is not because women are not working; it's a result of the gaps that still exist in gender inclusion. At Wema Bank, we believe that investing in women is investing in the economy and society at large. By giving to women, we can bridge the gaps and accelerate economic prosperity. The bank has been intentional about this, both for its internal and external customers, and the results are evident. Thousands of women have been empowered to make meaningful societal impact and empower other women. The event also featured the SARA Gives to Empower Her Award, which recognised five women who have made significant contributions to women's empowerment. The award is a testament to Wema Bank's commitment to supporting women and fuelling economic growth. In conclusion, Wema Bank's International Women's Day event was a celebration of women's empowerment and a call to action for all stakeholders to work together to bridge the gap in gender inclusion. As we continue to navigate the complexities of economic growth and development, it's clear that investing in women is key to unlocking our collective potential.