Union Bank has set a new standard in Nigeria’s financial sector by offering unparalleled comprehensive maternity leave to support working mothers and an on-site crèche facility to support working parents. The scheme will benefit both male and female full-time employees.
The initiative includes an industry-leading five months of fully paid maternity leave, exclusive of the applicable annual leave, and an on-site crèche facility.
According to Section 54 of Nigeria’s Labour Act, new mothers are legally entitled to three months of maternity leave. However, Union Bank is leading the way with this groundbreaking comprehensive package, which is a significant step ahead of industry norms.
This extended leave, coupled with the ability to take annual leave, gives new mothers more time to recover and bond with their newborns, aligning with the focus of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3: Good Health and Well-being.
Additionally, returning mothers will benefit from a one-hour late resumption for the first month, easing the transition back into work and ensuring a smoother work-life integration.
Union Bank will also be adding an onsite crèche facility to further support working parents, with a pilot programme at the Head Office set to launch in December 2024. The crèche will provide lactation rooms and family-friendly amenities, offering a convenient childcare solution, particularly for working mothers. This initiative supports SDG 5: Gender Equality, by enabling women to balance their professional responsibilities with childcare needs, helping to retain top female talent and fostering an inclusive work environment.
By promoting gender diversity, Union Bank is contributing to broader economic growth. Research shows that achieving gender parity in the workforce could increase global Gross Domestic Products by 26 per cent.
With these innovative policies, Union Bank is taking significant steps to strengthen its position as a forward-thinking employer in the financial sector.
According to Chief Talent Officer of Union Bank, Omayuli Wale-Ajayi, “at Union Bank, we are proud to set a new standard in the banking sector with comprehensive maternity leave for working mothers and crèche facilities for the babies of both male and female full-time employees. We are committed to creating a workplace where women can thrive, and these initiatives are crucial in supporting working mothers as they balance their careers and personal lives. By providing five months of fully paid maternity leave and convenient childcare solutions, we aim to retain and empower top talent, ensuring all employees can contribute to the bank’s success”.
These progressive policies enhance work-life balance and position Union Bank as a leader in workplace inclusivity and sustainability. By prioritising gender diversity and employee well-being, Union Bank is committed to creating a supportive, inclusive workplace that aligns with global sustainability goals.
Established in 1917 and listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1971, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc. is a household name and one of Nigeria’s long-standing and most respected financial institutions.
