LAPO Microfinance Bank was one of the major winners at this year’s National Media Community Award, held on Saturday, 8 November, at the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Ikeja, Lagos. The event brought together media practitioners, business leaders and development stakeholders to recognise organisations contributing to national development.
The bank received an award for its role in expanding financial inclusion and strengthening microfinance services across the country. The organisers cited LAPO’s governance standards and long-term commitment to providing financial support to low-income households as reasons for the honour.
LAPO’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Cynthia Ikponmwosa Iranmwinran, also received an individual award for leadership. Iranmwinran, who has worked in the microfinance sector for more than two decades and became MD/CEO in 2020, was acknowledged for steering the bank through a period of digital upgrades and operational expansion.
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Founded in 1987 as Lift Above Poverty Organisation, LAPO has grown into one of Nigeria’s largest microfinance institutions, with more than six million clients and 535 branches across 34 states and the FCT. According to figures highlighted at the ceremony, the bank has disbursed more than ₦1 trillion in cumulative loans, with a current loan portfolio of ₦106.2 billion and assets valued at ₦124 billion.
The bank’s Director of Corporate Communication, Mr Oluremi Akande, was also recognised as the “Most Resourceful Corporate Communication Personality of the Year” for his work in strengthening the organisation’s public profile.
LAPO’s recent initiatives, including a mobile app that allows customers to apply for microloans and make transactions, as well as partnerships with global technology firms such as Oracle, were noted by the organisers. The bank was also commended for its environmental programmes and scholarship scheme, which has provided more than ₦65 million in educational support to students from low-income backgrounds.
In her remarks, Iranmwinran said the awards reinforce the institution’s commitment to widening access to financial services.
“As Nigeria continues to navigate complex economic realities, our mission remains clear — empowering individuals, supporting MSMEs and deepening financial inclusion,” she said.
LAPO has previously received several industry recognitions, including awards from the Development Bank of Nigeria and multiple Microfinance Bank of the Year titles from BusinessDay.
