Governor Sule urges women to break cultural barriers, achieve greatness

By Adeola Ogunrinde

Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has called on women to break through cultural and religious barriers in order to achieve greatness in their various endeavors.

He made this statement on Wednesday at the closing ceremony of the 24th National Women’s Conference of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The conference, themed “Soar Beyond Boundaries…Enrich Communities,” was aimed at encouraging women to overcome societal limitations and contribute to community development.

Representing Governor Sule at the event, Nasarawa’s Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Aisha Rufai Ibrahim, emphasized the importance of the event in promoting regional integration and complementing the Lagos State government’s efforts to improve the well-being of its residents.

Governor Sule noted that the theme of the conference was timely, given the current social and economic challenges faced by Nigerians. He highlighted the pivotal role women play in society, particularly in fostering growth and development.

“Women constitute a significant segment of our population and play a unique role in ensuring the growth of our society,” said Sule. “Their contributions to social, economic, and political transformation, agricultural production, and the well-being of families cannot be overstated.”

However, the Governor expressed regret over the continued discrimination women face due to cultural and religious considerations, which limit their access to opportunities for personal and societal growth.

“Negative cultural and religious biases have hindered women’s progress for far too long. It is time to break these barriers and allow women to fully contribute to the economic growth of our society,” Sule added.

He further noted that women have consistently proven themselves as catalysts for progressive change, not only in governance but across various fields.

The event was also attended by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who encouraged women to take up leadership roles, be creative, and contribute to economic growth. Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the COWLSO initiative for its role in empowering women and ensuring their voices are heard.

“You cannot stay at the back,” Sanwo-Olu said. “As women, you are in leadership positions and should be standing side by side with men. The skills are within you, so go out and soar beyond boundaries.”

He further urged women to acquire new skills, continuously innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society.

Sanwo-Olu acknowledged COWLSO’s contributions to the state’s development, citing their involvement in the renovation of schools, healthcare institutions, and the construction of old people’s homes.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, wife of the Lagos State Governor and COWLSO Chairperson, encouraged women to engage in politics and take up decision-making roles to further strengthen their influence in society. She emphasized the importance of modesty, prudence, and giving back to the community.

“Let us prioritize our needs over wants, lead by example, and mentor the next generation,” Dr. Sanwo-Olu advised. “The focus of COWLSO is to impact lives positively, and we must continue addressing the evolving needs of our society.”

The conference concluded with a renewed call for women to break barriers and seize opportunities for personal and societal advancement.