Advocates Push for 40% Female Leadership in Nigerian Banks

Stakeholders in Nigeria's financial sector are advocating for a 40% female leadership benchmark in banks to promote gender equity and enhance global competitiveness. This initiative was highlighted during the 2026 annual women's event organized by the Association of Professional Women Bankers, themed "Redefining the Power of Women to Shape the Future of Finance." Rafiat Onitiri, chairperson of the Association, emphasized the need for a definitive shift in the traditional definitions of power, advocating for technology-driven leadership that builds trust and creates value.

Currently, women occupy approximately 38-40% of leadership roles, which Onitiri argues is insufficient without institutional reforms. Miriam Olusanya, Managing Director of GTBank, noted that women are primary drivers of financial inclusion.

Ngover Ihyemb Nwankwo, Executive Director of Nigeria Interbank Settlement System PLC, stated that closing the gender gap requires intentional design at the infrastructural level. The event concluded with a consensus on the necessity of mentorship and structural changes to empower women in the financial ecosystem.