Women leaders have been urged to intentionally share knowledge, expand access and invest time in mentoring the next generation, saying a ‘give to gain’ strategy will accelerate business growth and economic inclusion.

The call was made by the Chairman, Board of Directors, Ecobank Nigeria, Bola Adesola, at the Franco-Nigerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Women in Business Luncheon Series 3, held in Lagos in partnership with Zenith Bank.

Adesola emphasised that beyond capital, women must commit to building ecosystems that enable others to thrive.

“When women give knowledge, access and time, they create pathways for sustainable success, not just for individuals but for entire economies,” she said.

She noted that mentorship, sponsorship and opening up networks are critical levers for empowering more women to scale businesses and take on leadership roles.

She added that the theme, ‘Give to Gain’ highlights a shift from passive advocacy to deliberate action, urging women in leadership to actively support emerging entrepreneurs through guidance, exposure and opportunity.

Also speaking, the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, described women as key drivers of growth across trade, hospitality and the creative industry, stressing that inclusive participation is vital to economic expansion.

Ambrose-Medebem, however, pointed to access to affordable financing as a major constraint limiting women’s potential.

“Women are at the centre of economic activity in sectors like trade, hospitality and the creative economy, yet many still struggle to access affordable financing needed to scale their businesses,” she said.

She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to policies and partnerships that promote gender equality and empower women entrepreneurs, noting that closing the financing gap would unlock significant economic value.

In his welcome address, the Consul General of France in Lagos, Laurent Favier, underscored the business case for gender equality, stating that investing in women is not philanthropy but a strategic imperative.

“Investing in women is not charity. It is a strategy. It is growth. It is the smartest business decision any organisation can make,” he said.

Favier further stressed that gender equality is essential for economic progress. “Equality between men and women is not simply a matter of principle — it is a necessity. It is a driver of economic growth, prosperity and competitiveness for our societies,” he noted.
Highlighting the broader benefits of inclusion, he added that organisations that embrace diversity consistently outperform their peers.

“When organisations invest in women, leverage diversity and champion inclusion, they outperform their peers,” he said.