Business
Polaris Bank pushes gender equity as growth strategy, invests over ₦1bn in women-led businesses
Polaris Bank has positioned gender equity as a core business strategy, announcing it has disbursed more than ₦1bn to support women-led businesses as part of its 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) commitments.
The bank made this known at its IWD 2026 event, themed “Gender Equity as a Business Imperative: The Give to Gain Advantage,” where executives and industry leaders called for more deliberate investments in women.
Speaking at the event, the bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kayode Lawal, said empowering women delivers measurable returns for both institutions and the wider economy.
“Investing in women delivers measurable returns for institutions and economies alike,” Mr Lawal said.
He added that supporting women remains central to Polaris Bank’s long-term strategy, citing targeted financing, enterprise advisory services and capacity-building programmes for female entrepreneurs.
Why it matters
Gender equity is increasingly being linked to economic performance, especially in developing economies like Nigeria, where women-owned businesses face limited access to finance and leadership opportunities.
Polaris Bank’s latest figures suggest growing private-sector involvement in closing this gap, with over ₦1bn already channelled into female-led enterprises.
The bank also said it continues to invest in health and social initiatives, including breast cancer awareness, early detection campaigns and girl-child education.
Industry voices: ‘Move beyond rhetoric’
Delivering the keynote address, Tomi Somefun, former Managing Director of Unity Bank, urged organisations to take practical steps toward gender inclusion.
“Gender equity is not just a social obligation but a pathway to better decision-making, innovation, and long-term resilience,” she said.
She warned that many institutions still treat inclusion as a symbolic gesture rather than a structured business priority.
Youth and leadership perspective
Social entrepreneur Belinda Nkechi Indinmachi challenged young professionals, particularly Gen Z, to rethink how they approach career and business growth.
“Purposeful contribution and long-term thinking are essential for sustainable career and business growth,” she said.
“Giving should be seen as an investment that yields tangible returns.”
Polaris Bank’s internal strategy
Polaris Bank executive director, Corporate & Investment Banking, Abimbola Ozomah, said the bank’s initiatives go beyond annual campaigns.
She highlighted programmes such as the Polaris Women Connect platform, which focuses on mentorship, knowledge-sharing and leadership development for women.
“Our focus on women empowerment extends beyond symbolic observance,” she said.
Earlier, Bukola Oluyadi, Group Head of Customer Experience and Value Management, emphasised the role of collaboration and support systems in driving inclusive success.
What’s next
Polaris Bank says it will continue expanding its women-focused initiatives, including its flagship Polaris Pearl programme, which provides tailored financial solutions and growth platforms for female professionals and entrepreneurs.
The bank also called on other organisations to adopt inclusive systems, arguing that gender equity is key to building resilient institutions and sustainable economies.
The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dayo Mobereola, has received an Award of Recognition from his former school for his contributions to mentorship and youth development.
The honour was presented by St. Patrick’s Grammar School during its 64th Founders’ Day celebration in Ibadan, where alumni and stakeholders gathered to celebrate the institution’s legacy.
Dr Mobereola said the recognition held deep personal meaning, reflecting on how the school shaped his early life.
“Attending the 64th Founders’ Day of St. Patrick’s Grammar School, Ibadan, brought back a flood of nostalgic memories,” he said.
“Fifty years after walking through those gates where many of my formative years were shaped, I remain deeply grateful for the friendships, guidance from teachers, and the bond of classmates.”
He also thanked the school’s Old Boys’ Association for the honour.
“I also wish to sincerely appreciate the Old Boys’ Association for the recognition accorded me this year. I do not take this honour for granted.”
Why it matters
Mentorship has increasingly been highlighted as a key driver of youth empowerment in Nigeria, especially in sectors like maritime where skilled professionals are in demand.
As head of NIMASA, Dr Mobereola plays a critical role in regulating Nigeria’s maritime industry, which contributes significantly to trade and economic growth.
His recognition underscores the growing emphasis on leadership beyond public office—particularly the role of experienced professionals in guiding younger generations.
Commitment to mentoring
Dr Mobereola reaffirmed his dedication to mentoring young people and serving as a role model.
“I remain committed to serving as a role model to the younger generation and to mentoring young men as they navigate their own paths.”
He urged students to remain disciplined and focused, stressing that mentorship and positive influences are essential for success.
Industry and public perspective
Education experts say alumni engagement plays a vital role in strengthening institutions and inspiring students.
In Nigeria, where youth unemployment remains a concern, mentorship initiatives are increasingly seen as a bridge between education and career opportunities.
Stakeholders in the maritime sector also note that experienced leaders mentoring young professionals could help close skill gaps and boost industry capacity.
What’s next
With increasing calls for structured mentorship programmes across industries, recognitions like this may encourage more public and private sector leaders to invest time in youth development.
For students at St. Patrick’s Grammar School, the event serves as both a celebration of history and a reminder of the possibilities ahead.
BOCA Energy Resources Limited, a leading indigenous energy company in Nigeria, has extended warm Eid-el-Fitr greetings to Muslim faithful across the country and around the world, marking the conclusion of Ramadan.
The company’s leadership emphasized the season’s values of patience, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal, linking them to BOCA Energy’s commitment to community development, operational excellence, and unity.
Ramadan’s Lessons in Patience and Giving
Mr. James Ukachukwu, Chairman and Managing Director of BOCA Energy, described Ramadan as a period of profound spiritual significance.
“Eid-el-Fitr is a moment of joy, gratitude, and renewed commitment to the values that unite us as a people. The holy month of Ramadan has taught us patience, self-discipline, and the beauty of sharing with those in need,” he said.
“At BOCA Energy, these values resonate deeply with our corporate philosophy. As we celebrate this auspicious occasion, I pray that the blessings of this season bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to all Muslim families in Nigeria and across the globe. Eid Mubarak to our esteemed stakeholders, partners, and the entire Muslim community.”
Linking Faith to Corporate Excellence
Mr. Reginald Onyirioha-Ofoegbu, Executive Director, highlighted the parallels between Ramadan and BOCA Energy’s work in engineering and community projects.
“Eid-el-Fitr is a celebration of spiritual renewal and the triumph of faith over worldly distractions,” he said.
“These same qualities guide our work every day—whether executing complex engineering projects, ensuring the highest safety standards, or empowering communities where we operate. May this season bring you closer to your loved ones and fill your homes with laughter and peace.”
Unity and Shared Purpose Across Cultures
Mr. Christopher John Alger, Principal Geophysicist and Technical Partner, drew attention to the importance of diversity and collaboration in the energy sector.
“Ramadan is a beautiful expression of faith, discipline, and community—qualities essential in technical and engineering fields,” he said.
“Whether designing site surveys across Nigeria’s offshore blocks or building lasting relationships with partners, we draw strength from the same spirit of dedication and collaboration that Ramadan celebrates. Eid Mubarak to all our Muslim colleagues, clients, and friends.”
BOCA Energy’s Role in Nigeria’s Energy Sector
BOCA Energy has delivered over 100 projects globally, offering engineering, procurement, construction, project management, and specialized oilfield services. The company is guided by integrity, safety, and sustainability and continues to invest in initiatives that benefit communities where it operates.
“As Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering unity, driving community impact, and powering Nigeria’s energy future with excellence and integrity,” the company said in a statement.
Why It Matters
The message reflects a growing trend among Nigerian corporations to link cultural and religious observances with corporate values. By emphasizing unity, social impact, and ethical business practices, BOCA Energy strengthens community ties and reinforces trust with stakeholders.
Nestlé Pure Life has been named the 2025 Product of the Year by LEADERSHIP Newspaper, recognising its performance, innovation, and impact in Nigeria’s bottled water sector.
The award highlights products that set industry benchmarks, with the editorial board pointing to the brand’s consistent delivery of safe drinking water and its sustainability efforts.
Why it matters
Access to clean and safe drinking water remains a key public health issue in Nigeria, making quality assurance and affordability critical for millions of households.
The recognition signals growing consumer demand for trusted hydration products, as well as increased scrutiny on environmental practices within the fast-moving consumer goods sector.
What drove the award
According to LEADERSHIP’s editors, the product stood out for:
Consistent high-quality drinking water
Sustainability initiatives, including packaging improvements
Innovation tailored to changing consumer needs
Public awareness efforts on clean water access
The brand uses protective sourcing, multi-stage purification, and mineral enhancement to maintain quality standards.
It has also introduced lighter packaging features such as recycled PET bottles and smaller bottle sizes designed for convenience and reduced waste.
Industry and company reactions
Speaking on the recognition, Nestlé Waters Business Executive Officer, Olutayo Olatunji, said:
“At the heart of everything we do lies our deep connection with consumers. This award underscores our commitment to not just delivering hydration, but providing a reliable, premium experience that our consumers can trust every day.”
On sustainability, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria, Victoria Uwadoka, added:
“As a fast-moving consumer goods company, we remain steadfast in our commitment to caring for the planet. Through eco-friendly packaging and sustainable design, Nestlé Pure Life is taking concrete steps to reduce its environmental footprint and fulfill its sustainability commitments.”
Broader industry perspective
Analysts say sustainability is becoming a major competitive factor in Nigeria’s bottled water market, as regulators and consumers push for reduced plastic waste.
Packaging innovation, including recyclable materials and smaller bottle sizes, is increasingly seen as essential for brands seeking long-term relevance.
What’s next
Nestlé Pure Life is expected to expand its product offerings and sustainability initiatives as demand for convenient and environmentally responsible hydration grows.
The company says it will continue to focus on quality, safety, and innovation across its product range.
About the company
Nestlé Nigeria is one of the country’s leading food and beverage firms, with brands including Nestlé Pure Life, Golden Morn, Milo, Maggi, and Nescafé.
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