First Bank of Nigeria Ltd has launched its inaugural First Women Network Dollar Fund, aimed at empowering women to diversify their investments and build sustainable streams of income.
The announcement was made by the bank’s managing director Olusegun Alebiosu on Friday night at an event held to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD).
Mr Alebiosu, represented by the executive director, retail banking (south) directorate Seyi Oyefeso, described the new product as an enhancement of the FirstBank Women’s Network Notes, which debuted in 2022.
The First Women Network Dollar Fund allows women to invest in dollars with as little as $100, offering attractive interest rates and competitive currency conversion options. Alebiosu emphasised that mutual fund investments provide long-term financial rewards, encouraging women to participate actively in the initiative.
“This fund enables the conversion of Naira to USD for various purposes, allowing our women to further diversify their earnings,” he said.
The unveiling ceremony was graced by key dignitaries, including the global chairperson of the FirstBank Women’s Network Olaitan Martins who highlighted the bank’s commitment to advancing gender inclusion in line with the 2025 IWD theme.
Mrs Martins underscored the importance of leadership, innovation, and collaboration among women in shaping the future of finance. She elaborated on the seven pillars established by the FirstBank Women’s Network (FWN), focusing on mentorship, career management, networking, personal branding, family lifestyle, financial empowerment, and more.
“The essence of these pillars is to empower ourselves and leverage collective support. No one is an island. Together, we can rise above barriers and champion gender equality,” Martins said.
In her goodwill message, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, wife of the Lagos State governor, represented by Mrs. Folake Muritala, wife of the accountant general of Lagos State, commended FirstBank Women for their initiatives. She outlined state-led empowerment programs aimed at advancing gender equality.
Similarly, Bamidele Abiodun, wife of the Ogun State governor, praised the bank’s innovations while sharing grassroots initiatives in her state to uplift women.
Wale Oyedeji, group managing director of First HoldCo, lauded the achievements of the FirstBank Women’s Network, reiterating the bank’s reliance on their contributions to its five-year strategic vision.
The keynote address was delivered by Ms. Remi Odunlami, a non-executive director of FirstBank, who spoke on overcoming challenges and biases to excel in professional spaces. She emphasised the need for collaboration, resilience and dedication in driving gender inclusivity in the financial services sector.
The event also featured cocktail sessions, entertainment, and fun activities for guests and members of the FirstBank Women’s Network as the bank reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for women.
