– By Alfred Abiodun
In a bold and thought-provoking keynote address delivered on behalf of Lotus Bank’s CEO, Mrs. Kafilat Araoye, Mrs. Aramide Awosanya, Divisional Head and General Manager of the bank, spotlighted the critical role of culture and societal expectations in addressing femicide. The address was part of the Societal Concerns Organization’s Symposium on the 17th of December, 2024, at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce International Conference Centre, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, with the theme “Breaking The Silence: Understanding And Preventing Femicide in our Community” aimed at exploring solutions to gender-based violence and fostering societal transformation.
Femicide as a Global Crisis
Mrs. Awosanya, a professional banker with tons of experience, outlined the alarming prevalence of femicide—the gender-based killing of women and girls—as a global crisis. She noted that systemic inequalities, entrenched cultural norms, and societal failures often create an environment where such violence thrives. According to global statistics, one in three women experiences violence in her lifetime, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue.
“It is an honor to stand before you today as a representative of Lotus Bank, under the visionary leadership of our CEO, Mrs. Kafilat Araoye, to address an issue of profound societal significance—the role of culture and societal expectations in addressing femicide.
Femicide, the gender-based killing of women and girls, is a grim manifestation of systemic inequalities, deeply entrenched cultural norms, and societal failures. Its prevalence is alarming, cutting across geographical, social, and economic divides. According to global statistics, one in three women experiences violence in her lifetime, often at the hands of intimate partners or family members. In many cases, these violent acts culminate in the ultimate crime—femicide.” She enthused in her opening remarks.
Challenging Harmful Cultural Norms
In her address, Mrs. Awosanya explored how cultural norms often perpetuate violence by reinforcing patriarchal structures. She cited examples of harmful practices such as forced marriages, dowry-related violence, and honor killings, which devalue women’s autonomy and lives. “Addressing femicide requires us to confront these cultural underpinnings and challenge the narratives that perpetuate violence,” she stated.
Transforming Societal Expectations
The keynote emphasized the need to redefine societal expectations that limit women’s roles and opportunities. Mrs. Awosanya highlighted the stigmatization of divorced or single women and the reluctance of victims to report abuse due to societal pressures. “Communities must prioritize individual safety over family honor and dismantle the culture of silence,” she urged.
Proposed Strategies for Change
Mrs. Awosanya outlined actionable strategies to address femicide, including:
- Education and Awareness Campaigns: Promoting gender equality through community and school programs.
- Empowering Women: Fostering economic and social independence through education and financial inclusion.
- Engaging Men and Boys: Encouraging healthy masculinity and allyship.
- Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Ensuring accessible and effective legal protections for victims.
- Harnessing Cultural Leaders: Partnering with traditional and religious leaders to reinterpret cultural practices.
- Responsible Media Representation: Challenging stereotypes and promoting positive portrayals of women.
Lotus Bank’s Commitment to Societal Progress
As a corporate institution committed to driving social change, Lotus Bank has prioritized initiatives that promote gender equality and empower women. These include financial inclusion programs and corporate social responsibility projects supporting victims of gender-based violence and projects, such as the Societal Concerns Symposium in creating awareness and enlightenment on societal issues as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility.
“As a corporate institution committed to societal progress, Lotus Bank recognizes the importance of addressing systemic issues that contribute to femicide. Our initiatives focus on financial inclusion, women’s empowerment, and corporate social responsibility programs aimed at supporting victims of gender-based violence.
We also acknowledge the importance of fostering a workplace culture that promotes gender equality, providing a model for broader societal transformation”, she said.
Mrs. Awosanya concluded the address with a powerful call to action:
“Addressing femicide is not just a legal or policy issue—it is a moral and societal imperative. Through collective effort, we can build a world where women live free from fear, valued for their contributions, and respected as equals.
“Addressing femicide is not merely a legal or policy issue; it is a call to action for all sectors of society to challenge deep-rooted cultural and societal norms that perpetuate violence against women.
“Through collective effort – bridging governments, communities, institutions, and individuals – we can build a world where women live free from fear and violence, valued for their contributions and respected as equals.
“On behalf of Mrs. Kafilat Araoye and Lotus Bank, I extend our commitment to this cause, advocating for a future where every woman and girl is empowered to thrive” she concluded.
Watch Mrs. AAwosanya’s media session below:
Lotus Bank CEO Kafilat Araoye Wins Societal Concerns’ Community Service Distinguished Award
A major highlight of the symposium was when Lotus Bank’s CEO, Mrs. Kafilat Araoye, was honored with the prestigious Community Service Distinguished Award by Societal Concerns, a leading advocacy organization committed to promoting social change and community development.
The award recognizes Mrs. Araoye’s exceptional contributions to societal progress, particularly her commitment to financial inclusion, women’s empowerment, and community upliftment through innovative banking initiatives and corporate social responsibility programs.
Under her visionary leadership, Lotus Bank has implemented transformative projects addressing critical societal challenges. These include programs aimed at empowering underserved communities, promoting gender equality, and providing financial literacy and support for victims of gender-based violence.
The award further solidifies Lotus Bank’s reputation as a socially responsible institution driving impactful change under the guidance of a dynamic and purpose-driven leader.
About Lotus Bank
LOTUS BANK is a Non-Interest Nigerian Bank deeply rooted in ethical banking, committed to ethical investing and ethical prosperity. We are committed to deepening financial inclusion and broadening the array of non-interest products available to the banked, unbanked, and under-banked population.
Our values are bold, ethical, and births new ideas. They are a testament to our desire to deliver a differentiated customer experience that supports Nigerian businesses and delivers shareholder value. We’re Proud to PARTNER. What are you waiting for? Bank with LOTUS ™.
As a leading financial institution, LOTUS BANK is also dedicated to fostering societal transformation through innovative banking solutions, inclusivity, and social responsibility. Under the leadership of CEO Mrs. Kafilat Araoye, the bank continues to champion initiatives that promote equality and empowerment.
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Alfred Abiodun
Publisher, DASCENARIO.
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