Launch of Nigeria Gender Country Program Aims to Propel Gender Equality and Economic Growth
The International Finance Corporation (IFC), along with the Nigeria Exchange Group (NGX Group) and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), recently unveiled the Nigeria Gender Country Program (NGCP) during a high-level virtual CEO roundtable. This initiative seeks to enhance private sector engagement in promoting gender equality and fostering inclusive economic growth.
Collaboration at the Core of the Initiative
The virtual session convened CEOs and senior leaders from NGX-listed firms, IFC client organizations, and LCCI members to outline the program’s strategic framework. The goal was to align stakeholders and generate support ahead of its official launch, emphasizing collaborative action to boost gender parity in Nigeria’s business landscape.
Building on Existing Initiatives
The NGCP leverages the momentum generated by Nigeria2Equal and other initiatives that have worked to enhance workplace inclusivity, support women’s leadership, and promote sustainable finance. Specifically, the program aims to create a more integrated platform for cooperation among development agencies, business leaders, regulators, and the organized private sector, thereby amplifying its impact.
Strategic Priorities to Enhance Women’s Economic Participation
The program is anchored on three key priorities: increasing women’s representation in leadership roles, improving access to quality jobs, and expanding opportunities for women and women-led businesses to secure productive assets, including finance, technology, and market access.
Emphasizing the Importance of Gender Inclusion
In his keynote address, Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), underscored the crucial role of the private sector in driving gender-inclusive growth. He highlighted that bridging the gender gap could unlock billions in economic value for Nigeria and called for a shift in perspective. Rather than viewing inclusion as a mere corporate responsibility or compliance matter, it should be recognized as a strategic lever for productivity and sustainable economic development.
Opportunities for Competitive Growth
Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director and CEO of NGX Group, expressed enthusiasm for the NGCP, describing it as a vital platform to enhance women’s economic participation. He noted that by facilitating greater access to leadership roles and resources, businesses can become more competitive and inclusive. At NGX Group, the conviction is strong that capital markets are pivotal in achieving these outcomes through improved governance, transparency, and stakeholder engagement.
Formulating a Strong Business Case for Gender Inclusion
Christian Mmuramura, Director of the IFC’s Lagos Office, elaborated on the compelling business rationale behind gender inclusion. He pointed out that gender inequality in Africa could cost as much as $2.5 trillion, further emphasizing that the NGCP aims to bolster women’s leadership and productivity. This initiative, which builds on the foundation of Nigeria2Equal, focuses on actionable, measurable solutions that help businesses flourish while promoting inclusive economic growth.
Calls for Commitment from Leadership
Dr. Chinyele Almona, Secretary General of LCCI, highlighted that the program’s success hinges on the accountability and sustained commitment of business leaders. He stressed the importance of embedding gender inclusion into organizational strategies and practices to drive tangible change.
Upcoming Launch Event to Advance the Initiative
The Nigeria Gender Country Program is set for a formal launch at an in-person event scheduled for July 9, 2026. This gathering will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to further discuss and advance the implementation of the program’s strategic priorities, marking a significant step toward fostering gender equality and inclusive economic prosperity in Nigeria.
