Zenith Bank Hosts 2026 International Women's Day Seminar with 'Take It and Own It' Theme
Zenith Bank Plc organized a significant International Women's Day seminar in Lagos, Nigeria, bringing together leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals from various sectors to celebrate women's empowerment and leadership. The event, held on Monday, March 9, 2026, at The Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, was themed "Take It, You Own It," aligning with the global International Women's Day message of "Give to Gain." This theme emphasizes the critical need to intentionally invest in women to drive sustainable social and economic progress throughout Nigeria and beyond.
Keynote Addresses from Prominent Female Leaders
The seminar featured several keynote addresses from distinguished women leaders. Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, was represented by Salamatu Gbajabiamila, wife of the President's Chief of Staff, who delivered a powerful message on behalf of the First Lady. She emphasized that empowering women should not be viewed as charity but rather as a strategic investment in national development, highlighting the essential role women play in building a stronger Nigeria.
Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State, delivered another keynote address focusing on the importance of education, mentorship, and leadership development for young women. She stressed that these elements are crucial for preparing the next generation of female leaders who will contribute significantly to Nigeria's growth and prosperity.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and former member of the House of Representatives, also spoke at the event. Her address centered on resilience, global opportunities, and the vital importance of women supporting one another across different industries and international borders. She encouraged women to leverage their networks and collaborate to achieve greater success.
Zenith Bank's Commitment to Women's Empowerment
Adaora Umeoji, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank, delivered welcome remarks highlighting the bank's dedication to creating platforms that encourage women to step forward confidently and take ownership of opportunities. She noted that while institutions must create enabling environments, women must also boldly claim their value and leadership positions in society. Umeoji's speech reinforced Zenith Bank's ongoing commitment to gender equality and professional development for women in Nigeria.
The seminar was expertly anchored by Master of Ceremony Mojibade Sosanya, popularly known as Mojibadeshow, who kept the audience engaged throughout the program. The event featured a diverse lineup of speakers, panelists, and performers, combining serious discussions with inspiration and entertainment to create a comprehensive experience for attendees.
Entertainment and Networking Opportunities
Beyond the educational and inspirational discussions, the event also included entertainment performances that added to the celebratory atmosphere. Comedian Chigul delivered a lively comedy performance that brought humor and excitement to the audience, while award-winning singer Teni thrilled attendees with an energetic live performance towards the end of the event.
Creative entrepreneur and photographer TY Bello delivered a talk focused on identity, purpose, and the importance of women embracing their unique calling. Her presentation added a personal and artistic dimension to the discussions about women's empowerment and self-discovery.
Participants were treated to refreshments and curated gift bags, creating a celebratory experience that extended beyond the formal program. For many attendees, the seminar provided valuable networking opportunities with professionals from different sectors, allowing for the exchange of ideas on advancing women's leadership in Nigeria. This networking component proved particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs and professionals looking to expand their connections and collaborate on future initiatives.
Zenith Bank's Legacy of Supporting Women
Over the years, Zenith Bank's International Women's Day seminars have grown into one of the most notable corporate platforms for conversations around gender equality and professional development in Nigeria. This year's edition continued that tradition by bringing together influential voices across business, governance, and the creative industry to reinforce a clear message: women should step forward boldly, seize opportunities, and take ownership of their role in shaping Nigeria's future.
The event's success underscores Zenith Bank's position as a leader in corporate social responsibility and women's empowerment initiatives. The bank's consistent commitment to these values has contributed to its reputation as Nigeria's number one bank by tier-1 capital for sixteen consecutive years, according to the 2025 Top 1000 World Bank's ranking produced by The Banker, Financial Times Group. This ranking places Zenith Bank as the 581st bank in the world with a tier-1 capital of $2 billion, further solidifying its financial strength and leadership in the Nigerian banking sector.
