The Association of Professional Women Bankers (APWB) is the women wing of the prestigious Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN).

The association was founded in 1983 as a body of Female Fellows {FCIB}, Honorary Senior Members {HCIB},Associates of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria {ACIB} & London, Micro- Finance Certified Members {MCIB} and CIBN registered financial institution workers by the new Banking Act No 5 of 2007.

A careful analysis of women in banks at the time showed clearly that, although women made up a considerable percentage of the bank’s staff, few held managerial positions. As a result, the founding members of the association saw a need to deliberately encourage more female bankers to sit for the Chartered Institute of Bankers examinations. They believed that the women who successfully passed these examinations, would be equipped, and strategically positioned for higher responsibilities in the industry.

Since inception, APWB has empowered, and positioned women bankers for more opportunities, while living the culture of integrity, transparency, accountability, and professionalism, which are part of its core values. Building on its solid foundation, APWB has consistently been at the forefront of providing members of the association with opportunities to network with bankers and other professionals.

As the global environment evolves, APWB has kept the pace, responding to the needs of its members through a balanced approach. For over three decades, the association has remained relevant by maintaining a transgenerational appeal.

Today, the association has zonal offices in Abuja, Enugu, Ibadan, Kano, Port-Harcourt and has members consisting of 36 Fellows, 558 Associates and 72 Honorary Senior Members of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria.

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Meet the Pathfinders of APWB

Late Mrs. Maria Sokenu, FCIB (Pioneer Chairperson, APWB)

Mrs. V.M Ige, FCIB

Late Mrs. Fola Lukanmbi, FCIB

Late Mrs. Olubukunola Osindero, FCIB

Mrs. Comfort Alagbe, FCIB

Mrs. A. Ebozie, FCIB