The Alternative Bank reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive financial ecosystem that empowers women and strengthens communities during a virtual event held on Friday to commemorate International Day for Rural Women, observed globally on October 15. The gathering brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and development partners to discuss ways to promote development under the theme “Rural Women and MSMEs: Driving Sustainability, Strengthening Economies, Securing Our Shared Tomorrow.” Inspiring speakers and sessions celebrated, empowered, and advocated for rural women across Nigeria and Africa.
Korede Demola‑Adeniyi, Executive Director (South) of The Alternative Bank, emphasized the significance of the day as a call to action. “Rural women are the backbone of food systems, the lifeline of families, and the architects of community resilience,” she said. “Empowering them is not only a moral imperative but also a cornerstone of sustainable national growth.” Demola‑Adeniyi also announced the launch of the Alternative Bank‑Utiva Women in Tech Scholarship, which will empower 20 women entrepreneurs with digital skills, innovation design, and business‑growth training, enabling them to scale their enterprises and strengthen their participation in the digital economy.
The event featured notable speakers, including Eyitayo Ogunmola, CEO of Utiva, who expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to redefine access to digital opportunities for women. Hon. Gift Johnbull, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South‑South), delivered a goodwill message reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to women’s empowerment. The United Nations was represented by Osalobo Osemhenjie, Programme Specialist at UN Women, who highlighted the organization’s ongoing interventions in Nigeria. Kemi Ayanda, Economic Development and Trade Strategist for Africa and the Middle East, presented “From Fields to Frontlines: Empowering Rural Women and Women MSMEs as Architects of Climate Resilience and Sustainable Prosperity,” emphasizing the need for bold action to advance equality, rights, and empowerment of women and girls in rural settings.
Throughout the commemoration, The Alternative Bank’s mission to drive sustainable, inclusive, and ethical finance models was reinforced, underscoring its role in unlocking opportunities for women‑led enterprises and contributing to Nigeria’s long‑term economic resilience.
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