By Ayomide Otitoju
Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equity as a business and growth strategy during its 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration, emphasizing sustained investments in women’s empowerment, financial inclusion, and leadership development. This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” called for collective action, collaboration, and strategic investment in women to accelerate gender equality.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director/CEO Kayode Lawal described the theme, “Gender Equity as a Business Imperative: The Give to Gain Advantage,” as central to the bank’s strategy. He highlighted that empowering women delivers measurable returns for institutions and broader economies, noting Polaris Bank’s support for women-led businesses through targeted financing, advisory services, and capacity-building initiatives.
Lawal also spotlighted the bank’s advocacy in breast cancer awareness, early detection initiatives, girl-child education, and inclusive workplace policies. He cited the bank’s flagship proposition, Polaris Pearl, which provides tailored financial solutions and growth platforms for women professionals and entrepreneurs.
Keynote speaker Tomi Somefun described gender equity as essential for organizational performance, urging institutions to move beyond rhetoric to structured action. She noted that enabling women to contribute fully enhances decision-making, innovation, and long-term resilience.
Social entrepreneur Belinda Nkechi Indinmachi encouraged Gen Z professionals to adopt strategic, long-term approaches to value creation, framing giving as an investment that yields sustainable career and business growth.
Polaris Bank’s Executive Director, Corporate & Investment Banking, Abimbola Ozomah, highlighted initiatives like Polaris Women Connect, designed to mentor and prepare female professionals for leadership roles through knowledge sharing and industry exposure.
The event also underscored the bank’s tangible impact on women’s economic participation, including disbursing over ₦1 billion to female entrepreneurs and ongoing investments in financial literacy and enterprise development.
Polaris Bank reiterated that empowering women is not symbolic but a deliberate growth strategy, positioning women as pivotal drivers of economic transformation.
