Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equity as a strategic driver of business growth and economic development at its 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) event.
Aligned with this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” the event highlighted the importance of intentional investment, collaboration, and generosity in accelerating gender equality.
Speakers emphasized that meaningful contributions to women’s empowerment serve as a catalyst for collective progress across sectors.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Bank, Kayode Lawal, described gender equity as a business imperative, noting that investing in women yields measurable returns for institutions and economies.
“Empowering women remains a core pillar of our long-term strategy,” Lawal said, citing the Bank’s support for women-led businesses through targeted financing, enterprise advisory services, and capacity-building initiatives.
He also highlighted Polaris Bank’s advocacy in breast cancer awareness, early detection and screening, as well as its contributions to girl-child education and inclusive workplace policies.
According to him, the Bank’s flagship initiative, Polaris Pearl, continues to provide tailored financial solutions and growth opportunities for women professionals and entrepreneurs.
Lawal called for more deliberate cross-sector action, stressing that inclusive systems are essential for building stronger institutions and sustainable societies.
Delivering the keynote address, the immediate past Managing Director/CEO of Unity Bank, Tomi Somefun, described gender equity as a critical lever for organisational performance.
She urged institutions to move beyond rhetoric and adopt structured, measurable actions.
“Enabling women to contribute fully is not just a social responsibility; it enhances decision-making, drives innovation, and strengthens long-term resilience,” she said.
Also speaking, social entrepreneur Belinda Nkechi Indinmachi challenged Gen Z professionals to adopt a strategic approach to value creation.
She stressed that purposeful contributions and long-term thinking are essential for sustainable career and business growth, adding that “giving” should be viewed as an investment with tangible returns.
In her remarks, Polaris Bank’s Executive Director, Corporate & Investment Banking, Abimbola Ozomah, reiterated that the Bank’s commitment to women’s empowerment goes beyond symbolic gestures.
She noted that initiatives such as the Polaris Women Connect platform are designed to equip female professionals with mentorship, knowledge-sharing opportunities, and access to industry leaders.
Earlier, Bukola Oluyadi, Group Head, Customer Experience and Value Management, set the tone for the event by underscoring the importance of collaboration and intentional support systems in achieving collective success.
The event also showcased Polaris Bank’s measurable impact in promoting women’s economic participation, including the disbursement of over ₦1 billion in funding to female entrepreneurs, alongside sustained investments in financial literacy and enterprise development.
Polaris Bank reaffirmed that its commitment to empowering women is anchored on deliberate action and inclusive growth strategies that position women as key drivers of economic transformation.
