Panelists highlight women’s potential in financial market growth

By Peter Egwuatu

Panelists at the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers’ (CIS) International Women’s Day 2026 celebration on Tuesday emphasized the growing influence of women in Nigeria’s financial markets.

The event brought together industry professionals, regulators, and stakeholders under the theme, “Give to Gain – Women Empowering Women Through Capital, Advisory & Investment,” with discussions focused on “Why Women Must Own the Capital Conversation.”

Speakers stressed the need for women to adopt long-term investment perspectives and increase participation in strategic partnerships to reduce the risks associated with single-owner enterprises. They encouraged female leaders to leverage innovation and pursue diverse opportunities to attract capital for business growth. Panelists noted that women-led companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) are among the best performing, illustrating the potential of female-led enterprises to drive sustainable market development.

International Women’s Day, observed globally, celebrates women’s achievements while calling for greater gender equality and inclusion. For women in the capital market, the day serves as a reminder of their vital contributions to financial innovation, investment strategy, and market leadership, while encouraging the creation of policies and opportunities that amplify their impact across the sector.

The panel featured Jude Chiemeka, CEO of NGX; Adebola Oruma, Group Head, Gender Business at the Bank of Industry; Lilian Olubi, Co-founder of Drug Aid Africa Initiative; Raliat Oyetunde, Principal Consultant at Prinsult Global Consulting; and Tunji Andrews, CEO of Awabah. The discussion was moderated by Simisola Ojumu, Managing Director of Regius Asset Management. Participants highlighted women’s increasing contributions to capital formation, investment decision-making, and financial leadership in Nigeria’s markets.

In his welcome remarks, CIS 13th President and Chairman, Oluropo Dada, commended women for their pivotal role in market development and their exemplary service to the capital market. The event also drew top leadership from the Institute, including 1st and 2nd Vice Presidents Fiona Ahimie and Dr. Akeem Oyewale, Registrar and CEO Ayo Adeonipekun, Member Board of Fellows Elizabeth Ebi, and Council Member Elile Olutimayin.

The programme attracted strong participation from both physical and virtual attendees, reflecting a rising commitment to promoting women’s leadership and inclusion in Nigeria’s financial sector. Panelists collectively called for sustained efforts to cultivate women’s long-term vision, strengthen business structures, and deploy talents to establish enterprises capable of outlasting their founders.

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