IWD 2024: SUNU Assurances committed to promoting gender inclusion – MD
SUNU Assurances Nigeria says it is committed to champion gender inclusion policy in its workplace.
Mr Samuel Ogbodu, Managing Director, SUNU Assurances Plc, said this in Lagos during 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration by the company.
The event was organised by the insurance company for its female staff as well as female journalists covering the insurance sector.
The theme of 2024 IWD is :Inspire Inclusion.
Ogbodu stated that, as a way of promoting inclusion, the insurance company has four men and three women on its Board level.
He said: “This year’s IWDs theme perfectly aligns with the core values and aspirations we hold dear at SUNU Group.
“International Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder of the remarkable achievements of women throughout history and the ongoing journey towards gender equality.
“It is a day to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of women in every sphere of life.”
According to him, the theme “inspire inclusion” requires of us to reflect on the importance and value of inclusivity in our workplaces, communities, and beyond.
Ogbodu said SUNU recognises the importance of creating a supportive and equitable environment where every employee, regardless of gender, feels empowered to reach their full potential.
“On this International Women’s Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to inspire inclusion in all that we do.
“Let us pledge to create workplaces and communities where inclusion is not only valued but celebrated, and where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.
“Together, let us inspire inclusion, break down barriers, and pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future for all,” the managing director said.
In her lecture, Ms Obiageli Okonkwo, Managing Director, Coinage Financial Services Ltd., said that the global rate for female labour force participation is 52.9 per cent.
Okonkwo stated that there was a ‘U trend’, which meant that women work participation was higher for the poorest countries, such as those with strong dominance in agriculture.
She noted that data had shown that the transformative potential for women was in the formal regular waged work.
The financial expert also advised the banking and insurance sectors to give serious attention to capacity building to promote financial inclusion, literacy and empower more women.
Mrs Itunu Oluwasomefun, Head, Reinsurance Department, SUNU Assurances charged the insurance company female workers to always be focus in life and ensure to balance their work and family life.
Oluwasomefun advised the women to always stand out, but respect the male gender and give others the opportunity to grow, as well as learn from others.
Mrs Titilayo Idowu, Deputy Manager, Claims Department, SUNU Assurances urged the female workers to be self motivated and also maximise opportunity of multiplying their streams of income.
Mrs Omobola Tolu-Kusimo, Insurance Editor, Nation Newspaper, charged women to work hard so as to be valued, rather than wait for men in order to survive.
Tolu-Kusimo said: “Don’t be a liability to your partner. Support your family and do extra work at your workplace to give you an edge when opportunity arises.
