Lagos State Government Reaffirms Commitment to Women's Rights and Economic Empowerment
In a powerful address at the International Women's Day event themed "Rights, Justice, Action, For All Women and Girls," Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu declared that women's rights have evolved from mere aspirations to constitutional obligations in the state. The event, organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos Island, brought together key stakeholders to discuss tangible progress for gender equity.
Moving Beyond Rhetoric to Measurable Outcomes
Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the urgent need to transition from promises to performance, urging all public and private institutions to deliver concrete results in women's empowerment. He emphasized that justice must be survivor-centred and institutionalized through the state's T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda, ensuring that gender protection remains a core governance principle.
The governor highlighted the #GiveToGain campaign, noting that investing in women is a strategic governance approach rather than a charitable act. This perspective underscores the state's commitment to creating a more inclusive and just society where women can thrive.
Systemic Shifts and Economic Justice
First Lady Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu echoed the call for systemic changes, emphasizing that women's and children's rights are crucial for building a legacy of justice for future generations. She stated that recognizing women's strength in national development is essential, and they must be given ample opportunities to grow and contribute.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Cecilia Dada, reinforced this message by highlighting the state's efforts to dismantle financial barriers through initiatives like skills acquisition centres and the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI). "A woman without income is more vulnerable to abuse. By equipping women with digital and entrepreneurial skills, we transform beneficiaries into business owners," Dada explained, emphasizing that economic justice is a key component of overall justice for women.
Legislative and Grassroots Perspectives
From the legislative angle, Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Lara Olumegbon, shared her perspective as the youngest parliamentarian, stating that her role involves transformation beyond mere representation. "I see the woman in Isale-Eko and the trader in Badagry. Their resilience is not a weakness to be exploited; it is a strength that must be rewarded with tangible change," she asserted, calling for policies that reflect real value and protection for women.
Guest speaker Lateefat Oluyemi urged women to remain focused and make sacrifices for their children's education, particularly for the girl-child, while acknowledging the state's commitment to protecting their rights. She also advocated for the enshrinement of children's rights acts and increased accessibility to justice for women facing violence.
Representing the political grassroots, All Progressives Congress (APC) Women Leader Rofiat Iyabosola Eletu promised that the party would continue to advocate for more women in leadership roles, reinforcing the collective effort needed to achieve gender equity.
This event marks a significant step in Lagos State's ongoing journey towards gender equality, with a clear focus on actionable strategies and measurable outcomes to empower women and girls across the region.
