In today’s dynamic corporate environment, diversity and inclusion have evolved from buzzwords to business imperatives. For LAPO Microfinance Bank, gender-balanced leadership is not just a matter of representation—it is a strategic priority.

In commemoration of the 2025 International Women’s Day with the theme; “Accelerate Action”, LAPO reaffirmed its enduring commitment to championing female leadership, advancing financial inclusion, and creating equitable opportunities across its workforce and client base.

With over 70% of its lending portfolio dedicated to women-led businesses, LAPO has consistently empowered female entrepreneurs through financial literacy programs, soft loans, and mentorship initiatives—cementing its role as a catalyst for women’s economic empowerment in Nigeria.

This year’s IWD celebrations saw LAPO spearhead a series of transformative events. In Lagos, over 400 students from Oregun Senior and Junior High School engaged in financial literacy sessions, with similar initiatives reaching 100 girls at Wesley’s Secondary Schools. At the 2025 Guardian Women Festival, LAPO equipped 500 women with tailored banking solutions and entrepreneurial guidance.

Further amplifying its impact, the bank actively participated in the Nigeria Magazine Networking and Awards Evening, which featured trailblazing speakers like Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani, Chief Mrs. Chinwe Ezenwa, and Paulette Watson MBE, all offering powerful insights on leadership, resilience, and business excellence. Other landmark engagements included the LAPO SME Connect 2025, fostering collaboration among women entrepreneurs and industry leaders, and the vibrant Women Connect Hangout 5.0, a celebration of female excellence through masterclasses, exhibitions, and recognition awards.

LAPO’s leadership structure is a testament to its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) values, with women occupying pivotal roles such as Mrs. Cynthia Ikponmwosa (Managing Director), Gloria Bako (Executive Director, Corporate Services), Lilian Ehigiamusoe (Executive Director, Operations), and Mrs. Peggy Idehen (Company Secretary).
“At LAPO Microfinance Bank, we recognise that diverse leadership is not just about fairness—it’s about business excellence,” said Oluremi Akande, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications.

“Our commitment goes beyond advocacy; we are embedding diversity and inclusion into our corporate DNA. We are not only championing gender equity—we are institutionalising it.”

By embedding DEI principles into every layer of its leadership strategy and workplace culture, LAPO Microfinance Bank is building a legacy where women are not only part of the conversation but are shaping the agenda. The bank’s continued efforts demonstrate that gender inclusion is not only a moral imperative—it is a strategic advantage that drives innovation, strengthens resilience, and secures long-term success.