FCMB, NNEW Celebrate Graduation of 215 Women Entrepreneurs

First City Monument Bank (FCMB), in partnership with the Nigerian Association of Women Entrepreneurs (NNEW), has successfully graduated 215 women from its capacity-building program aimed at empowering female entrepreneurs. The initiative, which focuses on equipping women with critical business skills, financial literacy, and access to funding opportunities, marks another milestone in promoting gender equality and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

During the graduation ceremony, FCMB’s representatives highlighted the program’s impact on enabling women to scale their businesses, create jobs, and contribute to economic growth. The initiative aligns with the bank’s commitment to fostering financial inclusion and supporting women-led enterprises, which are often pivotal in driving local economies.

The training, which lasted several weeks, covered essential topics such as business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and leveraging technology to improve operations. Participants also received mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts to help them navigate the challenges of running successful businesses.

NNEW, a leading organization advocating for women’s empowerment in Nigeria, praised the collaboration with FCMB for providing a platform that addresses the unique challenges faced by female entrepreneurs. Many women in the program cited difficulties in accessing capital, navigating bureaucratic hurdles, and managing work-life balance as common barriers to business success. The program’s holistic approach aims to tackle these issues, offering practical solutions and tools for sustainable growth.

Several graduates shared their success stories during the event, showcasing how the program has transformed their businesses. From expanding product lines to entering new markets, the women entrepreneurs expressed gratitude for the knowledge and confidence gained through the program.

FCMB reaffirmed its commitment to supporting more women entrepreneurs in the future, emphasizing the importance of gender equity in achieving broader economic development. The bank also announced plans to expand the initiative, reaching more women across Nigeria and providing additional resources such as low-interest loans and digital tools to further empower participants.

By graduating 215 women entrepreneurs, the FCMB-NNEW collaboration underscores the critical role of partnerships in addressing societal challenges and promoting inclusive growth. As these women take the next steps in their entrepreneurial journeys, their success is expected to inspire others and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic landscape.