Policies for women to assume leadership positions in Lagos deliberate – Sanwo-Olu
By Adeola Ogunrinde
As Lagos State joined the rest of the world on Friday to celebrate the 2025 International Women’s Day, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu emphasized the urgency of addressing persistent inequalities and barriers that hinder women from realizing their full potential. He stated that the occasion serves as a powerful reminder of the essential role women play in shaping societies and driving progress.
Speaking at the carnival ceremony organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) with the theme “Accelerate Action,” held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to bridging the gender gap through deliberate policies and initiatives.
“In Lagos State, we are not just echoing this theme; we are embodying it through deliberate policies and initiatives that empower women across all sectors. From expanding economic opportunities to ensuring access to quality healthcare and education, our administration remains steadfast in bridging the gender gap,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He highlighted programs such as HeForShe, which reaffirm the government’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where women are not only seen but heard, not only included but empowered. “We have made significant investments in initiatives designed to uplift women, fostering self-sufficiency, leadership, and economic participation,” he added.
The governor noted that through 19 skills acquisition centers and the Women Development Centre, the state provides tuition-free training in various skill areas, equipping women with the tools they need to thrive independently. These efforts, he said, are part of a broader strategy to enhance women’s economic empowerment and leadership potential.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, described women as the backbone of families, communities, and economies. She commended their resilience in breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and contributing immensely to national development.
Despite these achievements, Dada lamented the persistent challenges women face, including gender inequality, economic disparity, gender-based violence, and limited access to quality education, healthcare, and leadership opportunities. She stressed the need for sustained efforts to address these issues.
To this end, the commissioner called on all stakeholders—including the government, civil society organizations, the private sector, and individuals—to work collaboratively in accelerating the actions needed to close the gender gap. She urged for a collective commitment to creating a more equitable society where women can fully participate in all aspects of life.
