Ogun Women Rally Behind Tinubu and Abiodun, Advocate for Enhanced Female Political Engagement
In a significant political gathering, more than 5,000 women from Ogun State have formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office. The endorsement, which also includes unanimous support for Governor Dapo Abiodun's senatorial aspirations, was announced during the 2026 International Women's Day (IWD) celebration. The event, organized by the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, took place at the Royal Pavilion in Ijebu-Ode and attracted female political office holders from all twenty Local Government Areas of the state.
Strong Endorsements and Calls for Action
Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele led the charge, declaring the unwavering support of Ogun women for President Tinubu's re-election. She urged women to leverage their numerical strength to secure his return to power. Salako-Oyedele praised Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, highlighting its impactful and inclusive nature, particularly for women. She emphasized that the policies implemented by both the federal and state administrations have significantly benefited women, leading to measurable gains in social inclusion, economic participation, and access to opportunities.
"We are very proud of them and we pledge our unflinching support for them as they move on to the next level," Salako-Oyedele stated, calling for increased female participation in politics to sustain these advancements.
Commissioner Highlights Unity and Empowerment
Hon. Motunrayo Adeleye, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, echoed the political solidarity for Tinubu and Abiodun. She noted that the massive turnout of women reflected growing unity, resilience, and influence in public life. Adeleye linked the 2026 IWD celebration to the 50th anniversary of Ogun State's creation, underscoring women's consistent contributions to the state's development over five decades.
Adeleye attributed these achievements to deliberate leadership and inclusive policies at both federal and state levels. She commended President Tinubu for reforms aimed at economic recovery and inclusive growth, and Governor Abiodun for sustaining women-focused initiatives under the ISEYA development agenda. Additionally, she acknowledged the efforts of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu's Renewed Hope Initiative and State First Lady Bamidele Abiodun's Ajose Foundation in strengthening women empowerment interventions.
"Women have remained central to Ogun's development through family stability, commerce, community building, and increasing participation in governance and the private sector," Adeleye remarked. She urged women to translate their population strength into effective political participation by using their Permanent Voters' Cards to support Tinubu and Abiodun, stressing that sustained progress depends on active engagement in the electoral process.
Empowerment Initiatives and Thematic Discussions
In a move to bolster economic empowerment, Commissioner Adeleye announced cash grants for 50 women, each receiving 200,000 naira, and for 500 women, each receiving 50,000 naira. This initiative aims to support women's financial independence and community roles.
The event featured a discussion on the theme "Give to Gain," led by former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Senator Abiodun Olujimi. Olujimi described the theme as timely and issued a clarion call for Nigeria to dismantle systemic barriers that keep women at the periphery of power. She noted that the current two per cent female participation in politics represents a national crisis requiring urgent attention from all stakeholders.
"International Women's Day is not just a celebration but a moment for deep reflection on the structural reforms required to secure the future of the Nigerian girl-child," Olujimi argued. She likened the collective strength of women to an unbreakable circle, urging them to identify, support, and stand by credible leaders like Tinubu and Abiodun, while also emphasizing the need for mutual support among women politically and socially.
Conclusion: A Unified Front for Progress
The 2026 International Women's Day celebration in Ogun State served as a powerful platform for political endorsement and advocacy. With over 5,000 women rallying behind President Tinubu and Governor Abiodun, the event highlighted the growing influence of women in Nigerian politics. The calls for increased female participation, coupled with empowerment initiatives, underscore a collective push towards more inclusive governance and sustained development in Ogun State and beyond.
