By Seun Ibiyemi
Ecobank Nigeria has unveiled an enhanced version of its gender financing initiative, “Ellevate by Ecobank,” as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD).
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the bank said the upgraded programme reinforces its long-term commitment to advancing women-led enterprises in Nigeria and across Ecobank’s pan-African footprint.
Originally launched in July 2021 to improve access to finance for women-owned, women-led and women-focused small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within its commercial banking segment, the enhanced “Ellevate” initiative now adopts a broader and more inclusive structure.
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Under the new framework, the programme extends across all business segments, positioning “Ellevate” as a comprehensive ecosystem aimed at addressing structural financing and growth barriers faced by women entrepreneurs.
Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, Bolaji Lawal, said the enhanced programme strengthens the bank’s ambition to be the financial partner of choice for women entrepreneurs.
“Since its inauguration in Nigeria in July 2021, ‘Ellevate’ has delivered meaningful impact for SMEs and women-led businesses.
This next phase deepens our value proposition and reinforces our resolve to remain the preferred financial partner for women entrepreneurs,” Lawal said.
He explained that the expanded structure offers improved access to credit on competitive terms, including more flexible collateral requirements designed to ease traditional financing constraints.
Beyond lending, the programme integrates digital payment, collections and cash management solutions to enhance operational efficiency and support scalability.
A key pillar of the enhancement, Lawal noted, is structured market access. Through the bank’s MyTradeHub online matchmaking platform and e-commerce enablement capabilities, women entrepreneurs will be better positioned for cross-border trade expansion and participation in Africa’s regional value chains.
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The initiative also incorporates non-financial support mechanisms such as targeted training programmes, leadership development sessions and knowledge-sharing platforms to strengthen managerial capacity and ensure long-term sustainability.
Participants will additionally benefit from customised wealth management advisory services, integrated insurance solutions and a loyalty framework offering commercial incentives through select retail and lifestyle partnerships.
Lawal said the programme aligns with Ecobank’s broader ambition to drive inclusive growth by empowering women as critical contributors to economic development.
“African businesswomen deserve world-class banking solutions that drive turnover, profitability and sustainable growth. Our approach goes beyond financial inclusion to building an enabling ecosystem that enhances competitiveness and long-term resilience,” he added.
