Women
By Anthony Isibor
THE President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the American Business Council, Nneka Enwereji, has underscored the critical role of women’s leadership in driving accelerated economic growth, describing it as a “strategic advantage” rather than a matter of social inclusion.
Enwereji, who is also the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Citibank Nigeria Limited, said at the 2026 International Women’s Day event organised by the American Business Council that leadership remains one of the most important drivers of economic growth and that inclusivity in leadership must be anchored on competence
Speaking on the theme ‘Women’s leadership as a competence multiplier”, she stressed that “while gender is important, it is really about competence. Women should not be put in leadership positions if they are not competent, but the reality is that women are highly capable and have consistently demonstrated this,”
She noted that the global conversation has moved beyond equality and social inclusion to a more strategic question of how to harness the full potential of women in leadership for economic benefit.
According to her, one of the major ways women’s leadership drives growth is through strengthening the talent pool.
She explained that increasing the number of women in leadership positions helps organisations to attract and retain talent, as it provides visible role models for other women in the workforce.
“The more women you have in leadership, the more women you can attract and retain. People see leaders who look like them and believe they can achieve the same. Sometimes it’s not even about what is said, but what is seen,” Enwereji stated.
Drawing from her experience in global leadership initiatives, she noted that organisations across the world are grappling with talent retention challenges, adding that inclusive leadership structures, particularly those that support women, have proven effective in addressing such issues.
She cited flexible work arrangements as a key example, explaining that policies such as hybrid work models have significantly improved employee retention, especially among women balancing career and family responsibilities.
Enwereji also highlighted the unique strengths women bring to leadership, particularly in the areas of engagement, collaboration, and crisis management.
“Women are naturally able to connect, engage and manage complex relationships. These are critical leadership skills, especially in today’s workplace where understanding people is key,” she said.
She added that women often play central roles in managing both professional and family dynamics, which equip them with practical skills that translate effectively into leadership and decision-making.
In addition, she emphasised the multiplier effect of women’s economic participation, noting that women are more likely to reinvest in their families, workplaces and communities, thereby driving broader social and economic development.
“Empowering women is not just the right thing to do, it is smart economics. Women create impact that goes beyond themselves,” she noted.
She further pointed out that small but deliberate workplace policies, such as mentorship programmes, maternity support, and inclusive work environments can significantly influence women’s career progression and overall workforce participation.
Enwereji concluded by calling for the removal of structural barriers that limit women’s participation in leadership, stressing that achieving inclusive growth requires creating opportunities for both men and women to thrive.
“I don’t see women’s leadership as a favour or obligation. It is a strategic necessity. The focus should be on unlocking potential and reducing the barriers that prevent full participation,” she added.
The event brought together business leaders, policymakers and stakeholders to discuss ways of advancing women’s participation in leadership and fostering stronger economic ties between Nigeria and the United States.
A.I
March 26, 2026
Tags: ABC American Business Council Nneka Enwereji
