Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Reaffirms Commitment to Women's Rights and Empowerment at IWD 2026
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has strongly reaffirmed the government's dedication to protecting women's rights, ensuring accessible justice, and promoting economic empowerment. This declaration was made during the Year 2026 International Women's Day Celebration, held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos Island.
Moving Beyond Rhetoric to Action
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the event's theme, "Rights, Justice, Action, For All Women and Girls", challenges all stakeholders to move beyond mere rhetoric. He stressed that women's rights are constitutional obligations and that justice must be survivor-centered and readily accessible. The governor highlighted that gender protection remains a core component of the state's THEMES PLUS agenda, underscoring a strategic commitment to inclusivity and equity.
First Lady and Commissioner Echo Support for Women
In her address, First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, recognized the immense strength and contributions of women to national growth and development. She called for building a more just and inclusive society by providing women with opportunities to thrive and succeed. Dr. Sanwo-Olu's remarks reinforced the need for systemic support to harness women's potential fully.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Cecilia Dada, emphasized the necessity of collective action to safeguard women's rights, ensure justice, and empower women and girls. She detailed the state's ongoing efforts to create a safe and inclusive environment, pointing to various initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation and social protection for women.
Guest Speaker Advocates for Education and Policy Reform
Guest Speaker Lateefat Oluyemi urged women to remain focused and make sacrifices, particularly in educating the girl child, to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. She praised the Lagos State government's commitment to protecting women's rights while calling for the enshrinement of child rights acts and policies that reflect societal values.
Oluyemi also advocated for enhanced protection and accessible justice for women against violence, stressing that legal frameworks must be strengthened to address gender-based issues effectively. Her speech highlighted the interconnectedness of education, policy, and justice in advancing women's empowerment.
Broad Participation from Dignitaries and Leaders
The event saw participation from a diverse group of stakeholders, including lawmakers, political appointees, community and religious leaders, and state government officials. This broad attendance underscored the widespread recognition of women's empowerment as a critical priority for Lagos State's development agenda.
Overall, the 2026 International Women's Day celebration in Lagos served as a powerful platform to reinforce commitments, share insights, and mobilize action towards a more equitable and empowered future for all women and girls in the state.
