The Nigerian Exchange Group, in partnership with the Central Securities Clearing System and Women in Management, Business and Public Service, on Tuesday called for improved gender equity and increased women’s participation in the economy.

They made the call at the 2026 Ring the Bell for Gender Equality ceremony, held during the NGX closing gong ceremony. This served as a call to action for expanding women’s participation in leadership, finance, and the broader economy.

Delivering the welcome address, Temi Popoola, NGX’s group managing director, said capital markets play a critical role in inclusive economic growth.

“Capital markets are powerful engines for economic transformation. When women participate fully as leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors, markets become stronger, deeper and more resilient.

“At NGX Group, we remain committed to advancing policies, partnerships, and platforms that expand opportunities for women and accelerate inclusive prosperity,” he said.

Deputy foreign affairs minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu commended NGX and its partners for sustaining the global movement.

Imo’s first lady, Chioma Uzodimma, urged collective action to expand opportunities for women and girls.

NGX CEO Jude Chiemeka underscored the importance of broadening women’s participation in the capital market ecosystem.

Speaking on development finance, Claude Owona, regional industry manager at the International Finance Corporation, noted the economic benefits of gender equality. Meanwhile, Media entrepreneur Ms Mo Abudu encouraged women to pursue their ambitions with clarity and confidence.

“Find your purpose, let passion fuel your journey, stay consistent even when challenges arise, and most importantly, stand firmly in your power. Do not shrink,” she said.

Award-winning actor Funke Akindele urged women to act with discipline and courage.

“You can do it. But beyond the words, we must put in the hard work, build structure into our businesses, and do things the right way,” she said.

The ceremony celebrated women’s contributions to Nigeria’s capital market and economy while reinforcing the need for sustained action to close gender gaps in leadership and opportunity.

(NAN)