In a landmark achievement for Nigeria’s banking sector, women now comprise 35% of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) directors and half of its Non-Executive Board, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to inclusive and representative leadership.Speaking at the grand finale of the International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations at the CBN Head Office on March 25, Governor Olayemi Cardoso reaffirmed the Bank’s mission to foster gender-balanced leadership. The event marked the culmination of a month-long programme honoring IWD across the institution.> “Increasing women’s representation in leadership is not just ethical; it is a strategic necessity,” Cardoso stated. “The rise of women in leadership at the CBN reflects a global shift, where skilled and visionary female leaders are reshaping governance. We at the CBN are proud to be part of this progress.”The appointment of six new female directors sets a historic precedent, further advancing Governor Cardoso’s vision of diverse leadership. He commended the invaluable contributions of women across the Bank, highlighting the newly appointed directors and his Advisers—Dr. Daphne Dafinone, Dr. Nkiru Balonwu, and Ms. Shola Phillips—for their expertise and strategic insight in shaping policy direction. He also acknowledged the continued leadership of existing female directors, who play a pivotal role in steering the CBN forward.Deputy Governor of Corporate Services, Ms. Emem Usoro, expressed gratitude for the collective effort behind this year’s IWD programme, describing it as a powerful testament to the Bank’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and institutional progress. She emphasized the urgency of the IWD 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action,” citing a World Economic Forum report that predicts full gender parity may not be achieved until 2054. She urged institutions to dismantle structural barriers and create sustained opportunities for women.The celebration concluded with the Inspiring Women Award, an initiative by the Change and Culture Transformation Unit (CCTU) recognizing outstanding female staff across CBN branches. Out of 806 nominations, 28 winners were selected through a rigorous evaluation process, representing branches from Awka, Dutse, Yola, Gombe, Oshogbo, Kaduna, Enugu, and Birnin Kebbi.Among the honorees, Deputy Governor Emem Usoro received the prestigious Amazon Award from Governor Cardoso, recognizing her exemplary leadership. Ten female directors were honored as Trailblazers, alongside 18 inspiring women celebrated for their remarkable contributions across the Bank.This milestone reaffirms the CBN’s commitment to empowering women and driving meaningful change in Nigeria’s financial sector.