Access Bank empowers 4m women with N370bn in W initiative

… unveils Power of 100 Africa Initiative

Access Bank has empowered over four million women-owned businesses and individuals with more than N370 billion through its W Initiative, reinforcing its commitment to fostering financial inclusion and gender equity.

At the 2025 International Women’s Day event themed ‘Accelerate Action, Inspiring Generations’ in Lagos, the bank also unveiled the Power of 100 Africa Initiative, recognising influential female change-makers across the continent.

Dahlia Khalifa, IFC’s Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa, highlighted the initiative’s impact, saying, “Since its inception, this initiative has helped mobilise over N370 billion, reaching about four million women-owned SMEs and individuals. That’s amazing, four million Nigerian women and women-owned businesses, and still going strong.” She stressed the importance of partnerships in driving systemic change, emphasising collaboration with the Nigeria to Equal program alongside Access Bank and other private sector leaders.

Addressing the audience, Khalifa spoke passionately about the next generation of women leaders and entrepreneurs. “The next generation isn’t waiting for us to make room, they are creating opportunities, building with resilience, creativity, and boldness. It’s up to us to stand with them and support them. They’re not waiting for our permission; they are waiting for our partnership. Whether you’re a banker, an investor, a policy maker, or an entrepreneur, ask yourself: Where can I move faster? What obstacles can I remove? Whose voice can I elevate? If each of us steps up, we create momentum that lifts everyone. Let’s get to work and accelerate action by mobilising capital, innovation, and partnerships to ensure that every woman has a chance to lead, grow, and thrive. We will all benefit as a result.”

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Mutale Nalumango, Vice President of Zambia, lauded Nigeria for its rich culture and dedication to advancing women’s rights. “It is an honor to be here as we celebrate International Women’s Day and unveil the Power of 100 Africa Initiative, recognising remarkable African female changemakers. Today’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action, Inspire Generations’, goes beyond celebration. It is a reminder of the vital role women play in shaping our societies and driving progress across Africa. When women rise, nations rise.”

She stressed that women’s empowerment is not just a social justice issue but an economic imperative. “When women have access to education, healthcare, and financial resources, they uplift families, communities, and entire nations.”

Addressing the honorees, she expressed admiration for their achievements. “To the 100 honorees being celebrated today, I express my admiration for your achievements. You stand as a testament to perseverance, courage, and vision. Your stories inspire countless women and girls who look up to you as role models.”

Chizoma Okoli, deputy managing director of Access Bank, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to women’s empowerment. “We believe in women. And we do everything in our power to ensure that every woman who comes across us believes that she can achieve her dreams. We are a global bank operating in Africa, and today, we affirm that this is not just a Nigerian vision, it is an African dream. That is why we celebrate the Power of 100 Africa, because at Access Bank, we have taken on the responsibility of supporting female entrepreneurs across the continent. We want them to drive the global economy and lead it. And today, we see the impact of that vision.”

Bolaji Agbede, acting group managing director/CEO, said that Access Bank doesn’t just support women’s empowerment, it actively invests in it. “At Access Bank, we don’t just believe in women’s empowerment, we invest in it. Through the W Initiative, we provide access to finance, mentorship, and business support for women across Africa. What started as a bold vision 15 years ago has become a movement, spanning 16 African countries and impacting hundreds of thousands of women entrepreneurs, professionals, and young girls.”