Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equity as a key driver of business growth and economic development, during its 2026 International Women’s Day 2026 celebration.
At the event, themed “Give to Gain,” stakeholders emphasised the importance of intentional investment in women as a catalyst for inclusive growth, collaboration, and long-term value creation.
Speaking, the Managing Director/CEO of Polaris Bank, Kayode Lawal, described gender equity as a strategic imperative, noting that empowering women delivers measurable returns for institutions and economies.
Lawal highlighted the bank’s continued support for women-led businesses through targeted financing, enterprise advisory, and capacity-building initiatives. He also pointed to sustained advocacy in breast cancer awareness, girl-child education, and inclusive workplace policies.
He added that the bank’s flagship initiative, Polaris Pearl, remains a key platform providing tailored financial solutions and growth opportunities for women professionals and entrepreneurs.
Delivering the keynote address, Tomi Somefun, immediate past Managing Director/CEO of Unity Bank, described gender equity as a critical lever for organisational performance. She urged institutions to move beyond rhetoric to structured, measurable action.
Also speaking, social entrepreneur Belinda Nkechi Indinmachi encouraged young professionals to adopt a strategic approach to value creation, stressing that purposeful contribution and long-term thinking are essential for sustainable growth.
In her remarks, the Executive Director, Corporate & Investment Banking at Polaris Bank, Abimbola Ozomah, said the bank’s commitment to women empowerment goes beyond symbolic gestures, citing initiatives such as Polaris Women Connect, which focuses on mentorship, leadership development, and knowledge sharing.
Earlier, the Group Head, Customer Experience & Value Management, Bukola Oluyadi, underscored the importance of collaboration and intentional support systems in driving collective success.
The bank also showcased its impact in advancing women’s economic participation, including the disbursement of over ₦1 billion in funding to female entrepreneurs, alongside investments in financial literacy and enterprise development.
Polaris Bank reiterated that its approach to gender equity is anchored on deliberate action and inclusive growth strategies, positioning women as critical drivers of economic transformation.
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