IWD: First Bank unveils dollar trading platform for women

First Bank of Nigeria Limited has unveiled its maiden First Women Network Dollar Fund to enable women diversify their investments to build a steady income.

The Managing Director of First Bank, Olusegun Alebiosu, announced this in Lagos on Friday night at an event organised by the bank to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD).

Alebiosu said the unveiling of the new platform was to build on success of the First Bank Women’s Network Notes that was  introduced in 2022.

He stated that the new fund allows women to invest in dollars as little as $100 at an attractive interest rate.

Alebiosu noted that investments in mutual funds is rewarding as little bits could grow into larger funds with exciting returns.

He said with the the new platform, women could have naira converted to dollars for investment purpose at competitive rates.

“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,” the MD said.

Alebiosu, who was represented by the Executive Director of Retail Banking (South) Directorate, Seyi Oyefeso, explained First Bank’s efforts helping its female workforce thrive with leading innovations.

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He was joined in the unveiling of the new product by the Global Chairperson of First Bank Women’s Network, Olaitan Martins, and other prominent departmental heads of the bank.

Martins in her welcome address said women are stepping into leadership roles, driving innovations and shaping the future of finance.

Martins commended the commitment of the bank to the theme of the 2025 IWD by accelerating gender inclusion.

She explained seven pillars formed by the FWN for coaching and mentorship, career management, networking, personal branding, family lifestyle, and financial empowerment, among others.

“The essence of these pillars is for us to take advantage of the pillars and use it to empower ourselves. No one is an island. You don’t need to stretch out yourselves,” she said.

Martins, who added that women could rise above barriers, urged them to support each other.

The Star