The Alternative Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding inclusive banking opportunities for rural women and women-led enterprises across Nigeria. This pledge was made during a high-level virtual forum the Bank hosted on Friday to commemorate the International Day for Rural Women, themed “Rural Women and MSMEs: Driving Sustainability, Strengthening Economies, Securing Our Shared Tomorrow.”

The event brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and development partners to advance the conversation on rural women’s economic inclusion and sustainability. It aligned with the United Nations’ global observance of Rural Women’s Day and featured an inspiring lineup of speakers who celebrated and advocated for women driving transformation in local economies.

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In her welcome address, Korede Demola-Adeniyi, Executive Director (South) of The Alternative Bank, described the occasion as “a call to action” and emphasized the Bank’s dedication to building an inclusive financial ecosystem that empowers women.

“Rural women are the heartbeat of food systems, the lifeline of families, and the silent architects of community resilience,” she said. “Empowering rural women is not only a moral imperative but also smart economics and a cornerstone of sustainable national growth. The doors of The Alternative Bank remain open to partner, finance ideas, and co-create sustainable solutions that strengthen communities.”

As part of its commitment, the Bank announced the launch of the Alternative Bank–Utiva Women in Tech Scholarship, designed to empower 20 women entrepreneurs in its inaugural cohort beginning November 2025. The programme will equip participants with digital, innovation, and business growth skills to help them scale their enterprises and thrive in the digital economy.

Eyitayo Ogunmola, Chief Executive Officer of Utiva, commended the partnership, noting that “when women are equipped with the right digital skills, they don’t just transform their businesses—they transform their communities.”

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 removing barriers that hinder women’s access to education, finance, and productive opportunities.

From the United Nations, Osalobo Osemhenjie, Programme Specialist at UN Women, speaking on behalf of Ms. Beatrice Eyong, the Country Representative, highlighted ongoing UN-supported interventions providing business kits, rice milling equipment, and low-cost biogas systems for women across several states.

A thematic paper presented by Kemi Ayanda, Economic Development and Trade Strategist for Africa and the Middle East, titled “From Fields to Frontlines: Empowering Rural Women and Women MSMEs as Architects of Climate Resilience and Sustainable Prosperity,” underscored the need to recognize women’s resilience as an economic asset and a foundation for sustainable development.

Other notable speakers included Her Excellency Hajia Fatima Dikko Radda, wife of the Executive Governor of Katsina State; Rinsola Abiola, Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC); Judith Libaisi Kayoni, Global Rural and Social Development Expert (Kenya); Dr. Hadiza Yaro, Anglophone West Africa Sales Manager, SAKATA Vegetables Europe SAS; and Ameena Buhari-Mohammed, Private Banking & Wealth Management Lead at The Alternative Bank.

The event featured interactive sessions, live polls, and messages of solidarity from international partners, including Mrs. Ellen T. Johnson, Country Head of Commonwealth Businesswomen Africa (Gambia).

By hosting the event, The Alternative Bank reinforced its mission to advance ethical, inclusive, and sustainable finance models that unlock opportunities for rural women, support local enterprise, and contribute to Nigeria’s long-term economic resilience.