Women Leaders Champion 'Give to Gain' Strategy to Unlock Economic Inclusion
Women leaders have been strongly encouraged to adopt a proactive 'give to gain' strategy, which involves intentionally sharing knowledge, expanding access, and investing time in mentoring the next generation. This approach is seen as a powerful catalyst for accelerating business growth and fostering broader economic inclusion across Nigeria.
Call to Action by Ecobank Nigeria Chairman
The call was made by Bola Adesola, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Ecobank Nigeria, during the Franco-Nigerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Women in Business Luncheon Series 3. The event was held in Lagos and organized in partnership with Zenith Bank. Adesola emphasized that beyond financial capital, women must commit to building supportive ecosystems that enable others to thrive and succeed.
"When women give knowledge, access and time, they create pathways for sustainable success, not just for individuals but for entire economies," she stated. She highlighted that mentorship, sponsorship, and opening up professional networks are critical levers for empowering more women to scale their businesses and assume leadership roles in various sectors.
Adesola added that the theme, 'Give to Gain', signifies a significant shift from passive advocacy to deliberate, actionable steps. She urged women in leadership positions to actively support emerging entrepreneurs through practical guidance, increased exposure, and tangible opportunities, thereby driving collective progress.
Insights from Lagos State Commissioner
Also speaking at the event, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, described women as key drivers of growth in critical sectors such as trade, hospitality, and the creative industry. She stressed that inclusive participation is absolutely vital for sustainable economic expansion in Nigeria.
Ambrose-Medebem, however, pointed to access to affordable financing as a major constraint that continues to limit women's potential and hinder their business scalability. "Women are at the centre of economic activity in sectors like trade, hospitality and the creative economy, yet many still struggle to access affordable financing needed to scale their businesses," she explained.
She reaffirmed the Lagos State government's unwavering commitment to implementing policies and fostering partnerships that promote gender equality and empower women entrepreneurs. She noted that closing the persistent financing gap would unlock significant economic value and drive broader societal benefits.
French Consul General on Gender Equality
In his welcome address, Laurent Favier, the Consul General of France in Lagos, underscored the compelling business case for gender equality. He stated that investing in women should not be viewed as philanthropy but as a strategic imperative for economic success.
"Investing in women is not charity. It is a strategy. It is growth. It is the smartest business decision any organisation can make," he asserted. Favier further stressed that gender equality is essential for meaningful economic progress and societal advancement.
"Equality between men and women is not simply a matter of principle — it is a necessity. It is a driver of economic growth, prosperity and competitiveness for our societies," he noted. Highlighting the broader benefits of inclusion, he added that organizations that embrace diversity and champion inclusion consistently outperform their peers in the marketplace.
"When organisations invest in women, leverage diversity and champion inclusion, they outperform their peers," he concluded, reinforcing the event's core message that collective action and shared responsibility are key to unlocking economic potential.
