Microfinance drive strengthens women traders at Mushin Market

ASHA Microfinance Bank marked International Women’s Day on March 9, 2026, with initiatives to support women-led businesses in Mushin Market, Lagos.

The bank unveiled actress and producer Jaiye Kuti as its brand ambassador and organised a free medical outreach for traders and residents, reinforcing its focus on financial inclusion and community development.

ASHA Microfinance Bank CEO, Funmilola Paseda-Oladoyinbo, emphasised the economic importance of women in market communities. “Women are central to economic development, especially within market communities.

At ASHA, we believe that empowering women entrepreneurs strengthens families, businesses, and the broader economy. This celebration is our way of honouring their resilience and supporting their growth,” she said.

The event drew market leaders, traders, and members of the business community. It was hosted by the Baba Oja of Mushin Market, Alhaji Bolaji Awoyemi, and the Iyaloja of Mushin Market, Alhaja Sodiq Borokini. Mushin Market, one of Lagos’ largest trading hubs, is home to a significant number of women-led businesses, making it a strategic location for the bank’s outreach.

Kuti, who has starred in productions including Sacred, Eni Agbelebu, and Jayeola Ni Mo Nje, was officially introduced as ASHA Bank’s brand ambassador. The appointment is part of the bank’s strategy to engage more deeply with entrepreneurs, particularly women, and to promote access to financial products such as microloans, savings accounts, and advisory services.

In line with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” the bank organised a free medical outreach for traders and residents, providing basic health services and highlighting ASHA’s holistic approach to community development.

Kuti engaged directly with market traders, encouraging them to leverage the bank’s services to expand their businesses. “I am delighted to support these hardworking women and see how financial services can help them grow their operations,” she said.

Microfinance banks like ASHA play a critical role in Nigeria’s informal economy, providing small-scale credit and savings services that traditional banks often do not reach. Interventions aimed at women traders can have significant multiplier effects, boosting household income, creating jobs, and driving local economic growth.

Observers say women-led enterprises are the backbone of market communities in Lagos, and initiatives that improve access to capital, financial literacy, and advisory support are crucial for economic inclusion. ASHA’s celebration at Mushin Market illustrates how microfinance institutions can combine financial services with community engagement to strengthen women entrepreneurs.

Through events like this, ASHA Microfinance Bank seeks to reinforce its commitment to responsible financial services, community development, and inclusive growth, positioning itself as a key player in supporting women’s economic participation in Nigeria’s local markets.