IWD: We’ll continue to empower women, foster inclusiveness, says Sanwo-Olu 

…LASG distributes thousands of climate, eco-friendly stoves

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday reassured women in the State that his administration will continue to empower women through deliberate action and policies for them to be seen and heard.

He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering inclusiveness in ensuring gender equality for the progress and development of Lagos State in line with the THEMES+ agenda.

The Governor spoke on Friday during the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration, with the theme “Accelerate Action,” at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who advised women to take their mental health seriously, also announced the distribution of thousands of climate and eco-friendly stoves by his government to women on the ground and others at the local government level from Monday.

He said the celebration of International Women’s Day as a globally significant event is not merely a date on the calendar but a powerful reminder of the essential role that women play in shaping our societies and driving progress.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” serves as a clarion call to move beyond rhetorics and take bold, decisive steps toward achieving gender equality and empowering women.

He said: “This year marks a particularly pivotal moment as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, adopted in 1995 as the most progressive blueprint for advancing women’s rights globally. The theme ‘Accelerate Action’ underscores the urgency of addressing persistent inequalities and barriers that hinder women from realising their full potential.

“In Lagos State, we are not just echoing this theme; we are embodying it through deliberate policies and initiatives that empower women across all sectors. From expanding economic opportunities to ensuring access to quality healthcare and education, our administration remains steadfast in bridging the gender gap.

“Through programmes like HE for SHE, we reaffirm our dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where women are not only seen but heard, not only included but empowered.

“We have made significant investments in initiatives designed to empower and uplift women, fostering self-sufficiency, leadership, and economic participation.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed further that “Through 19 Skills Acquisition Centers and the Women Development Centre, we provide tuition-free training across various skill areas, equipping women with the tools they need to thrive independently. Our policies are dedicated to protecting women from gender-based violence while also creating opportunities for them to assume leadership roles in governance and decision-making.

“Additionally, we facilitate access to credit facilities and entrepreneurial support, enabling female entrepreneurs to grow and sustain their businesses. These efforts align with global priorities, recognising women as powerful catalysts for economic growth, innovation, and societal transformation.

“True progress requires collective action because gender equality is a societal imperative. In Lagos State, we actively encourage men to join the movement for gender equality, recognising that sustainable change can only be achieved when men and women work together in harmony.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu also commended his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, noting that her tireless advocacy for maternal and child healthcare has amplified the voices of countless women. “Her initiatives inspire us all to continue striving for a society where no woman or girl is left behind,” he said.

The Governor also extended his gratitude to his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat; and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, for their unwavering support in advancing the shared vision of the incumbent government.

Speaking early, Dr. (Mrs) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, while reeling out all the support for women from the Office of the First Lady, noted that policies will further be strengthened to provide equal opportunities for women in governance and business to ensure no one is left behind.

In her Welcome Address, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Dada, commended the Sanwo-Olu administration for numerous policies and initiatives that create an inclusive society where women are empowered to be financially independent while also bridging the gender gap.

Dada hinted that Lagos State Executive Council has approved the domestication of Economic Empowerment Policy in Higher Institutions in the State.

The Guest Speaker, a professor of Psychiatry and Consultant Psychiatrist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Prof. Olurotimi Coker, during his lecture, highlighted the importance of positive mental health to the well-being of women to strengthen the society.

He emphasised that the multi-dimensional roles of women contribute largely to their mental health, hence the need for women to pour out their minds while aggrieved to avoid depression, using the five stress management techniques which included dancing, laughing, writing their grievances in letter and keeping it to themselves among others.

Also in her lecture, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, said women must be empowered with tools and resources to be financially independent. She urged them to tap into opportunities from the circular economy.

The International Women’s Day celebration was attended by top government officials and different women’s groups across the 20 local government areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of the State, dressed in a touch of purple clothing, and they all participated in a march past during the event.

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