Senior government officials, regulators, development finance institutions, and business leaders officially launched the Nigeria Gender Country Program (NGCP) on July 13, 2026. This initiative signals a coordinated effort to leverage gender inclusion as a catalyst for business competitiveness, investment, and long-term economic growth in Nigeria.
Led by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, in partnership with Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), the NGCP integrates advisory expertise, funding, and strategic partnerships. Its core objectives include strengthening women’s representation in leadership, enhancing access to quality employment, and expanding access to finance, technology, and markets for women and women-led businesses.
Economic Impact and Objectives
The economic rationale behind the NGCP is substantial, with research indicating that bridging gaps in women’s leadership, employment, and entrepreneurship could generate an estimated US$22.9 billion in additional economic output annually. This underscores the compelling economic case for increased private sector engagement in gender inclusion.
Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman of NGX Group, stated that the program represents a crucial shift from dialogue to action. He described women’s economic participation as an economic imperative, highlighting its role as an investment in productivity, a catalyst for innovation, and a driver of sustainable economic growth.
Stakeholder Commitments and Collaboration
Speaking at the launch, Olivier Buyoya, Division Director for West and Central Africa at IFC, reaffirmed IFC’s commitment to helping businesses translate gender inclusion into stronger competitiveness and sustainable growth. He noted that economies grow faster and businesses perform better when women have equal opportunities to participate, lead, innovate, and succeed.
The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reiterated the state’s dedication to fostering an enabling environment for women-led enterprises. Similarly, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, represented by Aishatu Digili, called for enhanced collaboration across government, development institutions, and the private sector.
Frana Chukwuogor, Executive Commissioner, Legal and Enforcement at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), representing Dr. Emomotimi Agama, underscored the capital market's vital role in advancing inclusive growth and supporting women-led businesses. She commended IFC’s leadership in promoting inclusive private sector development globally.
Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NGX Group, represented by Jumoke Olaniyan, explained that NGX Group’s role extends beyond capital formation to promoting standards and partnerships that help businesses grow responsibly. He affirmed that the program provides a platform for practical action, building on the momentum of Nigeria2Equal.
The event also saw contributions from Mathew Verghis (World Bank Country Director for Nigeria), Bola Adesola (Chairman of Ecobank Nigeria), Dr. Omobola Johnson (Senior Partner at TLcom Capital), Olufemi Shobanjo (Chief Executive Officer of NGX Regulation Limited), Dr. Chinyere Almona (Director General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry), and representatives of UN Women. Private sector organizations are now signing on to the NGCP, committing to its strategic priority areas, with more information available at www.ifc.org/ngcp.
