Nigerian banks are increasingly striving to add value to the lives of women and girls in the society through various initiatives. These initiatives are tailored to solve one of the major problems that women face regarding the access of financial, education, skills, and business networks. These have gone a very long distance in building a better and wealthier society. Below is a rundown of some of the key efforts made by Nigerian banks: 

  Financial Inclusion Predefined Financial Products 

 Special financial products and services for women entrepreneurs, such as credits, saving accounts, and microfinance facilities. Interest rate discounts help alleviate financial burdens by availing loans intended for businesses owned by women. Banking Access and Literacy Partnerships with NGOs and government programs increase access to opening bank accounts for women on the periphery of society. Training in financial literacy and management enables women to make financially informed decisions. Education and Skill Development 

 Digital Skills Training 

Programs are funded and developed that purport to provide girls and women with digital literacy related to today’s job market.

Business and Vocational Training

Seminars and symposium on business management and entrepreneurship are exclusively designed for women. Vocational training in various trades opens options for girls in alternate career lines Educational Support: Linkages with educational institutions and NGOs encourage girls’ education through scholarships and mentorship. 

 Mentorship and Capacity Building Mentorship Programs 

They have mentorship programs where experienced women are connected with aspiring entrepreneurs to offer demonstrations and guidance. 

Advisory Services: It offers advisory services and business development support to women-owned businesses, enabling them to grow in a competitive business environment. Leadership Development: Workshops/Seminars are provided for women targeting leadership development and career advancement to create future leaders among them. 

 Advocacy and Awareness Gender Equity Agenda 

It partners with organisations involved in promoting gender equality and advocating for women’s rights. Event sponsorship for causes and activities raises awareness on gender-based violence and discrimination. 

 Policy Support 

The long term incentives policies that encourage women’s economic participation and leadership. Health and Well-being 

 Access to Health 

Partnership with Health Providers offers discounted access to healthcare services for women. Raise awareness campaigns on women’s health issues, including menstrual hygiene and mental health. Women’s Leadership and Empowerment 

 Promotion of Leadership 

Round table discussions and events will be carried out to encourage women’s leadership and boardroom readiness. It empowers widows and marginalised women with skills, funding, and equipment to start businesses in the sector. 

 Sector Empowerment 

Conferences and initiatives advocating for women’s involvement in agriculture and technology. Community and Social Impact 

 Scholarship and Mentorship 

Partnering NGOs to offer scholarship and mentorship programs to young girls. 

The program trains and mentors young girls on leadership, empowerment, and personal development. 

 Resource and Training Support 

The programs provide resources and training in STEM education and entrepreneurship for relatively underprivileged girls. 

Therefore, these multifaceted initiatives conceived to empower women and girls in Nigeria are intended to give them the resources and relevant skills and opportunities needed. Programs touching financial, educational, health, and leadership needs can be seen to offer critical links for building a better society. 

Oluyemi Adeosun (PhD) – July 8,2024