NGX, PARTNERS RALLY FOR GENDER EQUALITY IN ECONOMY

Nigeria’s financial market leaders are pushing for stronger gender inclusion, urging greater participation of women in leadership, investment, and economic decision-making.

The call came during the 2026 “Ring the Bell for Gender Equality” ceremony at the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) Closing Gong event in Lagos. The initiative—organised with the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) and Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ)—aligns with the UN Women theme: “Rights, Justice, Action – For All Women and Girls.”

NGX Group Managing Director Temi Popoola said capital markets thrive when women actively participate as leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors.

“Capital markets are powerful engines for economic transformation. When women are fully involved, markets become stronger, deeper and more resilient,” he said, adding that NGX remains committed to policies and partnerships that expand opportunities for women.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu praised the initiative, saying efforts like this help open doors for the next generation of female leaders across the financial ecosystem.

Also speaking, Chioma Uzodimma, First Lady of Imo State, urged collective action to expand opportunities for women and girls, describing the ringing of the NGX gong as a symbol of commitment to an inclusive economy.

NGX CEO Jude Chiemeka stressed that greater female participation in the capital market strengthens sustainable growth, while IFC regional industry manager Claude Owona noted that economies perform better when men and women participate equally.

Prominent voices from the creative sector also inspired attendees. Media entrepreneur Mo Abudu encouraged women to pursue their ambitions with confidence and clarity, while award-winning actress Funke Akindele reminded women that success requires discipline, structure and hard work.

The event celebrated women’s growing contributions to Nigeria’s capital market while calling for sustained collaboration to close gender gaps in leadership and economic opportunity.