By Doris Israel Ijeoma
The Society of Women in Taxation (SWIT) Lagos chapter emphasized the critical role of diversity and inclusion in business growth during a recent visit to Grant Thornton Nigeria.
The delegation praised the firm’s Women in Business Report for its two decades of insights and consistency.
SWIT Lagos, led by President Sandra Momah, highlighted the importance of including women in leadership roles to drive national development.
Mrs. Momah commended the report for showcasing progress among women in mid-market leadership and stressed that women-led SMEs significantly contribute to Nigeria’s GDP, citing National Bureau of Statistics data.
Dr. Ngozi Ogwo, Managing Partner/CEO of Grant Thornton Nigeria, noted that the firm’s research has consistently addressed gender imbalances and provided actionable solutions.
She highlighted that women’s representation in senior management in the mid-market has increased from 19.4% to 33.5% over 20 years, but stressed the need for continued effort towards gender parity.
The SWIT delegation included officials such as Yetunde Olowofoyeku, Fumilayo Oguntoyibo, Olabisi Idowu, Ede Nkiruka, and Kike Kola-Fashanu.
They were welcomed by Grant Thornton executives, including Mr. Orji Okpechi and Mr. Victor Usifo.
Dr. Ogwo pledged Grant Thornton’s support for SWIT’s activities and announced the nomination of a SWIT ambassador within the firm to coordinate with the organization’s local chapter.
SWIT, founded in 2010, aims to empower women in taxation through professional development, advocacy, and networking, contributing to the socio-economic development of women in Nigeria.