Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering women and promoting inclusiveness as part of efforts to achieve gender equality and sustainable development in the state.
Speaking yesterday at the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration, themed ‘Accelerate Action’, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, the governor emphasised the need for bold, decisive steps beyond mere rhetoric in advancing women’s rights.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted that the event coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark global framework for promoting gender equality.
He stressed that Lagos State is actively translating this vision into reality through deliberate policies aimed at bridging the gender gap across various sectors.
“As a government, we are committed to fostering an inclusive society where women are seen, heard, and empowered.
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:Through initiatives like He for She, we are creating a platform for gender inclusivity, ensuring that women thrive in leadership, business, and governance,” the governor stated.
Governor Sanwo-Olu outlined several interventions designed to uplift women in Lagos, including tuition-free training in 19 Skills Acquisition Centers and the Women Development Centre.
He noted that these programs equip women with essential skills for self-sufficiency and economic participation.
Additionally, the state government has introduced measures to protect women from gender-based violence while expanding their access to credit facilities and entrepreneurial support.
“Women are key drivers of economic growth and innovation. By investing in their development, we are laying the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable society,” he said.
As part of efforts to support women and promote sustainable living, the Governor announced the distribution of thousands of climate-friendly and eco-efficient stoves to women in Lagos.
The initiative, set to commence at the local government level on Monday, aligns with the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Sanwo-Olu also urged women to prioritize their mental health, acknowledging the challenges they face in balancing multiple responsibilities.
In a lecture at the event, Professor Olurotimi Coker, a Consultant Psychiatrist at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), stressed the importance of mental well-being for women.
He recommended practical stress management techniques, such as dancing, laughing, and journaling, to help women cope with societal pressures.
The governor praised his wife, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for her tireless advocacy in maternal and child healthcare, noting that her initiatives have amplified the voices of women in Lagos.
He also acknowledged the support of Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, his wife, Oluremi Hamzat, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Cecilia Dada.
Speaking earlier, Mrs Sanwo-Olu reiterated the administration’s commitment to strengthening policies that ensure equal opportunities for women in governance and business.
Bolaji Dada, in her welcome address, commended the Lagos State government for its numerous initiatives that promote financial independence for women.
She also announced that the Lagos State Executive Council has approved the domestication of the Economic Empowerment Policy in higher institutions across the state.
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Special Adviser to the governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Titilayo Oshodi, encouraged women to explore opportunities in the circular economy to achieve financial independence.
She emphasised that access to resources and tools is crucial in fostering economic sustainability among women.
The IWD celebration brought together top government officials and women’s groups from across the state’s 20 local government areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
Dressed in a touch of purple to symbolize gender equality, the women participated in a colourful march past, reinforcing the message of inclusivity and empowerment.
