Retiring Lagos teacher wins three-bedroom apartment at 26th COWLSO conference
Mrs. Francisca Olaitan Lawal, a Lagos State teacher retiring after 33 years of service, has won a three-bedroom apartment, while Mary Odofin, a Level 9 officer with the Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY), has won a brand-new sports utility vehicle (SUV) at the 26th National Women’s Conference of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO).
The two women emerged as star prize winners during the raffle draw at the conference’s gala night. The three-day event, held from October 26 to 28, 2026, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, also saw other participants win shopping vouchers, return tickets to Ghana and London, and other gifts.
Speaking at the closing ceremony on Wednesday, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu urged COWLSO to sustain its legacy of community service by translating recommendations from its annual conferences into practical programmes that improve residents’ lives.
The governor stressed that the organisation’s impact must extend beyond his administration, calling for proper documentation of conference resolutions to guide future administrations and stakeholders. He also commended COWLSO for its interventions in education, healthcare and support for vulnerable groups, including widows, children and elderly people.
Sanwo-Olu noted that resources raised through the organisation’s activities had supported medical outreaches, school projects and other community initiatives. He said the conference’s success should be measured by tangible improvements in communities rather than discussions and networking alone.
“You must preserve the legacy of service while translating the resolutions of your annual conferences into practical programmes that improve the lives of residents,” the governor said.
Similarly, the First Lady, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said the conference’s impact would be determined by the positive changes participants brought to their communities. She urged women to move beyond drawing inspiration from others and become role models through service, compassion and practical support for those in need. She also thanked the governor for recognising COWLSO’s contributions, describing the gesture as an encouragement to members.
The first lady congratulated those recognised for their contributions to society, noting that true impact should be measured by lives touched rather than titles or positions. She urged participants to sustain the spirit of sisterhood, support one another and create opportunities for younger generations. Also speaking, the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, called on women to uphold purpose, integrity, excellence and unity while contributing to the development of Lagos State and Nigeria. Quoting American poet Maya Angelou, she said, “Nothing can dim the light that shines from within,” urging women to use their purpose to inspire younger generations.
