As Nigeria’s pioneering digital banking institution celebrates its 80th anniversary, Wema Bank has reinforced its commitment to supporting women-led enterprises across the nation. The announcement came during the unveiling of the bank’s anniversary initiatives designed to support and reward both existing and prospective customers nationwide.
Building on its successful partnership with the NBC Trade Fair, Wema Bank will return as the headline sponsor for the 2025 edition. The fair’s expanded reach will span 16 Nigerian states and include international venues, providing substantial support to thousands of entrepreneurs, with a particular focus on women-led businesses.
The 2024 NBC Trade Fair demonstrated remarkable achievements under Wema Bank’s sponsorship, generating over ₦3.5 billion in SME revenue. The event featured eight local fairs across various Nigerian cities and a groundbreaking London edition, highlighting the power of inclusive business networking. Of the 4,450 participating SMEs, an impressive 85% were women-led enterprises, underscoring the bank’s effective support for female entrepreneurship.
Looking ahead to 2025, Wema Bank’s 80th anniversary year promises an enhanced NBC Trade Fair experience. The event will offer expanded opportunities, specialized rewards, and comprehensive support tailored specifically for female business owners. This initiative reflects Wema Bank’s ongoing dedication to fostering economic growth through women’s empowerment, building upon its legacy as the pioneer of ALAT, Africa’s first fully digital bank.

Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.