Govs Eno, Adeleke, Sule to attend COWLSO 2024 National Women’s Conference

By Adeola Ogunrinde

Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, and Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule will headline the upcoming 24th National Women’s Conference, scheduled for Tuesday, September 10, to Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at The Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, starting at 9 a.m. daily.

Lagos State First Lady and Chairman of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, announced this on Monday, September 2, during a press briefing at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, to unveil the activities and programs planned for the 24th National Women’s Conference (NWC).

The hybrid conference, which will feature both virtual and physical participation, is themed “Soar Beyond Boundaries…Enrich Communities.”

According to the Lagos First Lady, “For this year’s NWC, we have made adequate preparations to ensure that intensive plenary sessions are conducted to extensively deliberate on the highlighted topics and associated issues. Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I am pleased to announce that we have invited His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, to be our Special Guest of Honour at the Opening Ceremony.

“In the same vein, His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, will be our Special Guest of Honour at the Gala Night. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, for the closing ceremony, we will be hosting the Governor of Nasarawa State, His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Sule, as our Special Guest of Honour.”

She noted that the presence of these governors from different states across the country would add further prestige and excitement to the conference.

Continuing, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu said, “It is pertinent to note that the annual conference, which has been consistent, inspiring, and continually improved over the years, has earned a remarkable reputation as a purpose-driven event that positively impacts the lives of thousands of women.”

She emphasized that the objective of the conference remains unchanged: “The NWC aims to directly address various challenges facing women, empowering and supporting them in becoming independent and realizing their full potential. This, in turn, will positively influence their lives, families, communities, and our nation as a whole.” She added that the theme for the 24th edition, ‘Soar Beyond Boundaries…Enrich Communities,’ reflects COWLSO’s ongoing commitment to bringing out the best in women and creating a virtuous circle of excellence.

Sanwo-Olu added that this year’s theme is particularly relevant as it encourages women to be self-confident in breaking boundaries in any chosen field. “Women globally are challenging the status quo by contributing immensely to the changing work environment and influencing the world positively. In the last five years, through this gathering, COWLSO has addressed themes that have helped women transform into better and more productive individuals in society.”

“Aside from the main theme, there will be other insightful and educational sessions led by seasoned facilitators and panelists on relevant topics, trending issues, and current realities.”

A highlight of this year’s NWC will be the presentation of the Inspirational Woman of the Year award, given annually to recognize individuals for their exceptional contributions to society. The recipient of this year’s award will be announced during the main conference. Other deserving corporate organizations and individuals will also be recognized for their contributions to the development of COWLSO.

“We are also excited to promote various businesses through COWLSO Virtual and Physical Markets, where participants can purchase various home-use items at subsidized rates from accredited vendors.

“This year, we expect up to 3,000 participants to attend in person and 1,500 to join virtually from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the Lagos State Government, as well as from other state government delegates, political groups, civil society organizations, and other bodies.”

Furthermore, the COWLSO Chairman said, “To add to the excitement of this annual conference, we have planned a Gala Night featuring maximum entertainment and raffle draws with exciting prizes for lucky participants. Over the years, COWLSO has enabled many participants to become homeowners and car owners, provided travel opportunities, and awarded numerous valuable gifts.”

Some of the topics to be addressed at this year’s conference include: “Communicable Diseases: Recognition and Strategies for Prevention and Management of Outbreaks”; “Challenging Gender Stereotypes: The Role of Empathy and Emotional Intelligence in the Boy-Child”; “Smart Garden Farming: Pathway to Food Security”; and “Climate Change and Women’s Health.”

Other topics include: “Advancing Women’s Political Participation: The Role of Legislation, Education, and Mentorship”; “A Legacy of Compassion: Championing Transformative Social Welfare”; “Holistic Wellness: Nurturing Body and Mind”; and “Entrepreneurial Mindset: Building Multiple Streams of Income.”