Polaris Bank Leads the Charge for Gender Equality at International Women’s Day Seminar

Polaris Bank Leads the Charge for Gender Equality at International Women’s Day Seminar 

Lagos, Nigeria – March 24, 2025 – Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment through its International Women’s Day (IWD) Seminar, themed: “Accelerating Action: Breaking Barriers & Creating Equal Opportunities.”  

The event brought together thought leaders, professionals, and advocates to discuss actionable steps toward gender equality, emphasizing the need for urgent and decisive action in dismantling systemic barriers and creating opportunities for women across all sectors.  

Polaris Bank’s Commitment to Women’s Empowerment 

Delivering her address, Mrs. Abimbola Ozomah, Executive Director of Polaris Bank, conveyed the goodwill of the Managing Director/CEO, Management, and Staff of the bank. She highlighted the significance of International Women’s Day, stating:  

"Today is a moment to recognize the remarkable achievements and contributions of women throughout history. However, it is also a call to action. This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ urges us to take swift and decisive steps towards achieving gender equality by breaking down systemic barriers that hinder women’s progress.”  

She reiterated Polaris Bank’s commitment to gender inclusivity, emphasizing that organizations must move beyond conversations and actively implement policies that support women’s growth and inclusion.  

Industry Leaders Advocate for Action, Collaboration, and Leadership  

The seminar featured insights from renowned industry experts, who shared strategies for overcoming obstacles, fostering leadership, and enhancing financial inclusion for women.  

Women Must Support Each Other – Ayaba M. Ayo-Joseph 

Ayaba M. Ayo-Joseph, a Non-Executive Director at Polaris Bank, urged women to uplift one another, stating:  

"Women should support each other, not bring each other down. This should not be limited to International Women’s Day but practiced consistently.” 

She outlined eight key ways to accelerate women’s empowerment, including:  

- Achieving economic independence  

- Stepping into leadership roles  

- Advocating for gender-friendly workspaces  

- Mentoring and uplifting others 

- Practicing self-care  

- Creating safe spaces for women  

- Building collaborative networks 

- Embracing digital transformation

She concluded with a rallying call: “The change we seek starts with us. Let’s keep pushing boundaries and supporting one another.”

Success Is Built on Character – Mrs. Subulade Giwa-Amu

Mrs. Subulade Giwa-Amu, a Non-Executive Director at Polaris Bank, emphasized the role of character, resilience, and purpose in achieving success.  

"Success is built on integrity. Challenges will arise, but strong character and purpose will help you navigate them," she stated.  

She also highlighted the importance of financial independence and continuous self-investment, adding:  

"Work-life balance is important, but prioritization is key at different life stages. Women must continuously invest in learning and personal growth.” 

Relationships and Personal Growth Are Key – Tolulope Makinwa-Adeniyi  

Tolulope Makinwa-Adeniyi, Executive Director of Muazu Africa,underscored the power of relationships and personal development, urging women to:  

"Express admiration, nurture meaningful connections, and build networks that open doors to opportunities." 

She also stressed the importance of embracing challenges for growth:  

"Step out of your comfort zone—real growth happens when you take on difficult tasks and push beyond limitations." 

On mastery, she advised:  

"Stay ahead by continuously upgrading your skills and leveraging new technologies."  

Addressing young schoolgirls in attendance, she called for a mindset shift, saying:  

"The ‘Cinderella Complex’ must end—women don’t need to be saved; they need to take charge of their destinies."

Time for Action, Not Just Conversations – Ndidi Ukaonu  

Ndidi Ukaonu, MD/CEO of Parthian Partners,called for tangible action beyond discussions:  

"It’s time to move from talking about gender equality to implementing real change.”  

She challenged women to define their impact, asking:  

"What are you known for? What legacy are you building? How are you contributing to change?"  

Encouraging confidence and initiative, she added:  

"Stop waiting for permission to be great—own your power and walk in it."  

She concluded with a powerful call to action:  

"Break barriers, create opportunities, and step up—the world is waiting for you." 

Polaris Bank’s Ongoing Commitment to Inclusion 

As a forward-thinking institution, Polaris Bank remains committed to driving change by ensuring that women are not only heard but empowered to lead. The IWD Seminar is part of the bank’s broader mission to foster an inclusive and equitable society, reinforcing its leadership in gender equality and women’s empowerment.