Union Bank has set a new benchmark in Nigeria’s banking industry by introducing a comprehensive maternity leave policy and an on-site crèche facility, reinforcing its commitment to gender equality and employee well-being. The bank’s new initiative includes an industry-leading five months of fully paid maternity leave, surpassing the legal requirement of 12 weeks under the Nigerian Labour Act, and the establishment of an on-site crèche for both male and female full-time employees.
This forward-thinking initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being by offering new mothers extended time to recover and bond with their newborns. The package also includes an additional month where mothers can resume work an hour later to facilitate a smoother transition back into the workplace. These policies aim to enhance work-life balance and provide crucial support for working parents.
Union Bank will further strengthen its support for employees by launching an on-site crèche facility at its Head Office in December 2024. The crèche will offer family-friendly amenities, including lactation rooms, to ensure convenient childcare solutions for working mothers and fathers, supporting SDG 5: Gender Equality by enabling women to balance their professional and personal lives effectively.
Omayuli Wale-Ajayi, Chief Talent Officer of Union Bank, stated, “We are proud to lead the banking sector with comprehensive maternity leave and crèche facilities that support our working mothers and fathers. These initiatives are part of our commitment to creating a workplace where women can thrive, empowering them to balance career and family life while contributing to the bank’s success.”
Union Bank’s initiatives reflect a broader strategy to retain top female talent, foster an inclusive work environment, and promote gender diversity. Research shows that closing the gender gap in the workforce can boost global GDP by 26%, making these policies beneficial not just for employees, but for the economy at large.
Union Bank, one of Nigeria’s most respected financial institutions, continues to lead by example in workplace inclusivity and sustainability, positioning itself as a forward-thinking employer committed to creating a supportive and equitable work environment.
For further information, visit www.unionbankng.com.