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In the heart of Ikoyi, Lagos, an impactful discussion unfolded—not about stock markets or corporate profits, but about the financial realities Nigerian women face. The annual Piggyvest Finance Roundtable, held in February 2025, became a platform for candid conversations about the persistent gender wealth gap and the challenges women encounter in achieving financial independence.
Statistics from the Piggyvest 2024 Savings Report painted a revealing picture. The report, based on a survey of over 10,000 Nigerians, highlighted that men are far more likely to earn over one million naira monthly. While women demonstrate strong entrepreneurial spirit, often leading in business ownership, they face numerous obstacles, including limited access to funding, the challenge of balancing caregiving duties with professional aspirations, and the societal norms that shape their financial opportunities.
“Most women-run micro-businesses aren’t structured for scaling,” explained finance expert Ibiyinka Ibru. “They primarily serve as household support systems rather than vehicles for financial growth.” Her insights echoed the experiences of many women juggling family responsibilities alongside their business ambitions.
The roundtable, moderated by Ngozi Chukwu, brought these experiences to the forefront. Yewande Akomolafe-Kalu of Flutterwave spoke on the complexities of managing both personal and business finances, which often hinder women’s access to loans. Bukky Akomolafe from Travelstart addressed the career sacrifices many women make when balancing marriage and motherhood, while Layo Ogunbawo of Splice emphasized the need for collective action. “It’s not just on women to fix these challenges—society and companies must step up,” she stated.
The event went beyond identifying problems—it was about finding actionable solutions. Panelists advocated for financial education tailored to women’s needs, workplace policies that support work-life balance, and improved access to funding for female entrepreneurs. They also envisioned a future where technology, designed with women in mind, could help bridge financial gaps.
Joshua Chibueze, co-founder and chief marketing officer of Piggyvest, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to this mission. “The Piggyvest Savings Report is becoming a vital resource,” he noted. “With continued efforts, it has the potential to influence government policies and shape economic research.”
This roundtable served as a powerful reminder that behind financial statistics are real individuals with aspirations and challenges. The message was clear: empowering women is not just a matter of equality—it is an economic necessity. As Nigerian women continue to break barriers and reshape financial landscapes, the nation stands to benefit from their success.
