Access Bank Launches initiative to Boost Female Entrepreneurship Across 16 Countries

Nume Ekeghe

Access Bank has unveiled its “Power of 100 Africa” initiative, aimed at empowering 100 female entrepreneurs across 16 African nations.

The announcement was made by the bank’s Deputy Managing Director, Chizoma Okoli, during a press conference in Lagos.

Highlighting the bank’s long-standing commitment to women’s empowerment, Okoli stated, “This initiative reflects our dedication to empowering women, and we believe it will inspire the next generation of female leaders across Africa. The Power of 100 Africa project is designed to bring about positive change in the communities where these women lead, and we are excited about the impact it will have.”

The initiative spans countries including; Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zambia, spotlighting women pioneers who have broken barriers, driven innovation, and inspired others through leadership.

Group Head of Women Initiative and Emerging Businesses at Access Bank, Abiodun Olubitan, emphasised the project’s role in advancing female entrepreneurship, stating, “Empowering female entrepreneurs is critical to driving economic growth across Africa, and this project is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate their achievements.”

The nomination process, overseen by Senior Manager in Business Advisory Services at Andersen in Nigeria, Utobong Hughes, is open to the public through an online platform. “Nominees should be women who have had positive impacts, are pioneers in their field, or have broken new ground in their industry,” Hughes explained.

Non-Executive Director of Access Bank, Omosalewa Fajobi, reiterated the importance of promoting female leadership across the continent, adding, “We believe in women and their ability to create meaningful change. This initiative will not only recognise their contributions but also encourage the younger generation to aspire to leadership roles.”