The Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM) successfully commemorated International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026 through a well-structured two-phase programme aligned with the global theme, “Give to Gain: Shaping Women for Leadership and Legacy.”
The celebration reflected the Bank’s strategic commitment to gender inclusion, women’s empowerment, and corporate social responsibility.
The first phase of the programme was a community outreach conducted on 24 March 2026 at Model Girls Junior Secondary School, Lugbe. Led by the Executive Director, Business Development, Hon. Stella Okotete, and supported by female staff across various departments, the initiative was designed to inspire and empower young girls.
The outreach featured motivational engagements, mentorship sessions, and interactive discussions focused on education, self-development, and confidence-building. Essential items, including toiletries and sanitary products, were distributed to support hygiene and dignity among the students. In addition, the donation of dining tables and chairs contributed to improving the school’s learning environment. Overall, the outreach successfully reinforced the Bank’s role in fostering the development of future female leaders and strengthening community engagement.
The second phase, held on 14 April 2026 at the Bank’s headquarters, comprised an in-house programme aimed at promoting staff engagement, reflection, and recognition. The event commenced with formal opening remarks emphasizing the significance of International Women’s Day as a platform for acknowledging the contributions of women and advancing gender equality. Executive Management reiterated its commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture anchored on fairness, equal opportunity, and professional excellence.
The programme featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions that addressed critical themes such as workplace ethics, collaboration, integrity, and inclusive leadership. Speakers highlighted the importance of mutual support, mentorship, and continuous learning in enhancing professional growth and organizational effectiveness. A fireside chat session provided an opportunity for staff across various levels to share experiences and insights, thereby promoting knowledge exchange and reinforcing institutional values.
In addition, the event incorporated networking sessions, team-building activities, and raffle draws, which enhanced staff participation, strengthened interpersonal relationships, and fostered a cohesive work environment. A staff entrepreneurship and innovation showcase further highlighted the diverse talents within the Bank and encouraged financial empowerment, creativity, and self-reliance among employees.
In her closing remarks, the Executive Director, Business Development, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to advancing gender equality and supporting the emergence of women in leadership roles. She also initiated strategic collaboration efforts aimed at facilitating capacity development programmes, including skill-based masterclasses to support staff innovation and entrepreneurship.
In conclusion, the International Women’s Day 2026 celebration at NEXIM Bank was highly impactful, effectively integrating community outreach, professional development, and staff engagement. The programme reinforced the Bank’s commitment to inclusivity, collaboration, and sustainable capacity development, while contributing significantly to improved staff morale, organizational cohesion, and the promotion of a values-driven workplace culture.
