Union Bank Sets the Pace with Family-Friendly Policies, Empowers Women in Finance and Beyond

Union Bank Sets the Pace with Family-Friendly Policies, Empowers Women in Finance and Beyond

Lagos, Nigeria – July 2025 — Union Bank of Nigeria is leading a quiet revolution in the nation’s financial services sector—championing gender inclusivity and women empowerment through a range of innovative policies and programmes that are setting new industry standards.

Recognised as the “Family-Friendly Bank of the Year” by The New Telegraph, the bank has emerged as a model institution fostering equitable work environments and advancing the social and economic status of women, both within its workforce and across Nigeria.

At the heart of its gender empowerment drive is the Alpher initiative, a holistic platform designed to support female students, entrepreneurs, and professionals. Through Alpher, Union Bank delivers tailored financial services, career growth programmes, business development resources, and lifestyle benefits that empower women to reach their full potential.

Union Bank’s strategic partnerships are also creating real-world impact. Notably, its sponsorship of the Women and Youth Entrepreneurship Development Centre (WYEDC) under the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) has enabled hundreds of entrepreneurs to access critical business training and funding opportunities.

The bank is also transforming workplace culture through policies that directly support women’s health and family life. Union Bank now offers five months of fully paid maternity leave, with the option of additional time off using annual leave. This groundbreaking policy aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 — Good Health and Well-Being — by ensuring working mothers receive adequate time to recover and bond with their newborns.

To further support working parents, Union Bank has established a modern crèche facility at its Marina Head Office in Lagos. Complete with lactation rooms and family-friendly amenities, the initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to SDG 5 — Gender Equality — by helping women balance their career aspirations with family responsibilities.

Internally, the bank also runs WeHub (Women Empowerment Hub), a dynamic network for female staff that fosters mentorship, hosts empowerment events, and encourages career progression. The platform regularly leads conversations on closing the gender digital divide and ensuring women are well-represented in decision-making roles.

> “Empowering women is not just a corporate responsibility, it's an investment in a stronger, more resilient society,” said a Union Bank spokesperson. “We are proud to be creating an inclusive environment where every woman — employee or customer — can thrive.”

Union Bank’s comprehensive approach to women’s empowerment positions it as a forward-thinking institution in Nigeria’s banking sector, setting an example for others to follow.

For women seeking growth, support, and meaningful opportunities, Union Bank offers more than banking — it offers partnership, purpose, and progress.