First Bank of Nigeria Ltd. has launched the First Women Network Dollar Fund, a new initiative aimed at helping women diversify their investments and create steady income streams.
The Managing Director, Olusegun Alebiosu, announced this on Friday night at an event organized by the bank to mark the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD).
Alebiosu stated that the introduction of the new product builds on the success of the FirstBank Women’s Network Notes, which was introduced in 2022.
He highlighted that the fund allows women to invest in dollars with as little as $100 at competitive interest rates.
“Investing in mutual funds can be highly rewarding, as small contributions can grow into larger sums with exciting returns,” he said.
He also explained that the new product enables women to convert Naira to dollars at competitive rates for investment purposes.
“So this is yet another fund which I will enjoin you all to be part of. This fund allows you conversion of Naira to USD for its many purposes, allowing our women to further diversify their earnings,” he said.
Alebiosu, represented by the Executive Director, Retail Banking (South) Directorate, Seyi Oyefeso, emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting its female workforce through innovative solutions.
He was joined in unveiling the new product by the Global Chairperson of FirstBank Women’s Network, Mrs. Olaitan Martins, alongside other prominent departmental heads of the bank.
Martins, in her welcome address, acknowledged the increasing role of women in leadership, innovation, and shaping the future of finance. She praised the bank’s commitment to advancing gender inclusion in alignment with the 2025 IWD theme.
She outlined the seven pillars established by the First Women Network (FWN), which focus on coaching and mentorship, career management, networking, personal branding, family lifestyle, financial empowerment, and other growth areas.
“The essence of these pillars is for us to take advantage of them and use them to empower ourselves. No one is an island. You don’t need to stretch out yourselves,” she said.
She encouraged women to support each other and overcome barriers, stressing the importance of collective efforts in driving gender equality.
“Every decision you make, every opportunity you champion, and every barrier you break down contributes to the larger movement towards equality. Let us remember that gender equality is not just a women’s issue.
“It’s a societal imperative. When women succeed, economies grow stronger, communities become more resilient, and the world becomes a better place for everyone. Let us work together, not just to support women, but to support the younger ones,” she said.
The wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, represented by Mrs. Folake Muritala, wife of the Accountant General of Lagos State, delivered a goodwill message celebrating the achievements of FirstBank Women and highlighting empowerment initiatives for women in the state.
Similarly, the wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, congratulated FirstBank Women on their innovative efforts and highlighted grassroots programs aimed at empowering women in her state.
Mr. Wale Oyedeji, GMD of First HoldCo, commended the FirstBank Women’s Network for their contributions, emphasizing that the bank relies on their efforts to achieve its five-year vision.
The keynote speaker, a Non-Executive Director of FirstBank, Ms. Remi Odunlami, spoke on overcoming challenges and biases to excel in various sectors. She emphasized the importance of collaboration, focus, resilience, and dedication in achieving gender inclusivity within the banking and financial services industry.
The event featured cocktail sessions, entertainment, and various engaging activities for guests and FirstBank Women.
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