The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reaffirmed its commitment to gender inclusion and women’s empowerment in the financial sector by participating in Citibank’s inaugural Women in Central Banking event. Held in London, United Kingdom, on March 10, 2025, the prestigious gathering brought together top female leaders from central banks, financial institutions, and policy-making bodies across the world in celebration of International Women’s Day.
The event provided a significant platform to recognize the increasing role of women in shaping economic policies, financial regulations, and monetary stability across different regions. It also highlighted the progress made in breaking barriers for women in financial governance while addressing the ongoing challenges of gender disparity in leadership roles within the global financial ecosystem.
Distinguished Female Leaders in Attendance
Among the prominent financial experts and policymakers present at the event were:
- Ms. Emem Usoro, Deputy Governor (Corporate Services), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)
- Prof. Hatice Karahan, Deputy Governor, Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye
- Dr. Susan Koech, Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Kenya
- Naomi Feldman, Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) Voting Member, Central Bank of Israel
- Nneka Enwereji, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Citibank Nigeria Limited
These distinguished women, holding key positions in financial institutions across different continents, engaged in insightful discussions on the role of female leadership in shaping global financial policies, tackling economic crises, and fostering sustainable growth through inclusive banking strategies.
Ms. Emem Usoro, Deputy Governor (Corporate Services) of the CBN, emphasized Nigeria’s dedication to advancing gender equity in the banking and finance sector. She noted that the CBN has continued to implement policies that empower women in leadership positions, enhance financial literacy for women entrepreneurs, and drive inclusive economic participation.
CBN’s Commitment to Women’s Advancement in Finance
Speaking at the event, Ms. Emem Usoro, Deputy Governor (Corporate Services) of the CBN, emphasized Nigeria’s dedication to advancing gender equity in the banking and finance sector. She noted that the CBN has continued to implement policies that empower women in leadership positions, enhance financial literacy for women entrepreneurs, and drive inclusive economic participation.
“As a financial regulator, the Central Bank of Nigeria remains committed to ensuring that women are not just participants but key decision-makers in the financial space. Through initiatives such as financial inclusion programs, leadership mentorship, and gender-responsive banking policies, we are determined to create an enabling environment for women to thrive,” Usoro stated.
Key Themes and Discussions at the Event
The Women in Central Banking forum focused on several crucial themes, including:
- Gender Representation in Financial Governance: Panelists explored the progress and setbacks in increasing female representation in senior roles within central banks and monetary policy institutions.
- Challenges Facing Women in Leadership: Experts discussed the barriers that continue to limit women’s career advancements in finance, including structural inequalities, cultural biases, and the lack of mentorship opportunities.
- The Future of Inclusive Finance: Speakers highlighted the importance of inclusive policies that ensure women have equal access to financial resources, investment opportunities, and leadership training programs.
- The Role of Central Banks in Driving Change: Participants examined how central banks can take proactive steps in promoting gender diversity and ensuring that financial policies are more inclusive.
Citibank Nigeria’s MD/CEO, Nneka Enwereji, lauded the initiative, emphasizing that fostering women’s participation in economic decision-making is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic move for economic development. “Financial institutions and regulators must recognize that empowering women in leadership roles leads to stronger economies, better policy decisions, and more resilient financial systems,” she remarked.
A Step Towards Greater Inclusion
The London event served as a milestone in the journey towards greater gender equity in the financial sector. It provided an avenue for thought leaders to exchange ideas, discuss best practices, and explore actionable strategies that can accelerate women’s representation in central banking and finance.
As Nigeria and other nations continue pushing for policies that enhance female leadership in banking, forums like Women in Central Banking will remain crucial in fostering dialogue, collaboration, and progress towards a more inclusive financial future.
This historic gathering underscores the growing global recognition that when women are empowered, economies flourish, financial systems become more stable, and societies benefit as a whole.
