The Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Emem Usoro, has challenged women to strive and become financially independent to live a fulfilled life.
Usoro gave this charge at the 23rd Conference of Women In Management, Business, and Public Service, which commenced in Lagos on Thursday.
Usoro is the Deputy Governor in charge of operations at the apex bank, and she spoke on the topic ‘Entrenching. Diversity and Sustainability in the Financial Services Sector.’
She said, “As ladies, we must seek financial independence, as it empowers us to make choices that align with our goals and aspirations.”
She added, “As a central banker and a woman, I dream that in every segment of the Nigerian populace, it is to help them have access, particularly women, to financial services that adequately meet their needs, help them cultivate economic opportunities, and remain relevant. Accordingly, the Central Bank has developed frameworks that are sustainable and diversity-driven.”
Usoro also challenged female Chief Executive Officers and business owners to ensure that their senior management is committed to diversity and sustainable initiatives.
In her opening speech, the conference chair, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, urged the gathering of women to squash the ‘ANTs’ in their minds.
“ANTs are Automatic Negative Thoughts and the greatest thieves of your dreams. Dream dreams that scare you and challenge you. We must dream of goals that we don’t even know where the money is going to come from. You’re not alone, you will meet other dreamers. You’re here today to give wings to your dreams.”
Ogunsola, who is also the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, added that Nigeria needs women in every sphere of endeavour.
“It needs us to be present where decisions are taken,” she affirmed.
Also present at the event was the Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.
Former Vice president Yemi Osinbajo is scheduled to give the keynote address for the two-day conference.
