Zenith Bank Awards 19 'Sheroes' for Community Impact
Zenith Bank wrapped up its Women’s Month celebrations on March 28, 2026, with a prestigious awards ceremony at The Civic Centre, honouring 19 exceptional Nigerian women for their resilience and community impact despite the country’s tough economic climate.
The Woman of Power Award recognised women from all six geopolitical zones in trade, manufacturing, education, and agriculture. Awardees included Regina Amankulor (Umuode-Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North LGA, Abia), Mary Matanmi (Lagos State hair association), Ifeanyi Ugwueze (visually impaired counsellor pursuing doctorate), Amina Musa (Karonmajiji, Abuja), Adenike Lambo (Ilorin), Sadiya Abubakar (Bwari, FCT), Erikan Andrew (Port Harcourt), Ngozi Nwankpa (Aba), Hadiza Umar (Kaduna), Joy Ezenwa ‘Mama Amala’ (Kano), Shola Babalola ‘Mama Sho’ (Lagos), and Josephine Ugwu (FAAN, Lagos). They were selected for leadership, innovation, integrity, and community trust.
Zenith Bank’s Exec Director Adobi Nwapa, representing GMD Dame Adaora Umeoji, stressed the bank’s gender inclusion ethos—highlighting its 50-50 gender balance and female leadership. Ford Foundation’s Dr Chichi Aniagolu called the initiative an eye-opener to Nigeria’s overlooked female potential. Both organisations pledged sustained support.
The bank promoted its Z-Woman initiative and 19-year sponsorship of the NBBF Women’s Basketball League, reinforcing its commitment to women’s economic inclusion.
For Nigerian women entrepreneurs and community builders, this signals growing corporate recognition. Watch for Zenith Bank’s women-focused programs—these may offer networking, funding, or visibility. If you’re making a difference, consider nominating yourself or peers for similar awards next year.