9th March, 2024
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Friday pledged that his government will not relent in its commitment to empowerment of women and their capacity development in the State.
Sanwo-Olu spoke at the 2024 International Women’s Day celebration in Lagos on Friday.
The governor stated that while his government had made significant stride in capacity development with over 100,000 women empowered on various skills, through both short and long term vocation programmes, his administration would not rest on its oars in its commitment to empower more.
He said his government believed that empowering women economically is a catalyst to positive change.
“We know and our state recognises and appreciates the roles of women as mothers, as sisters, care givers, among others. It is therefore necessary for them to be accorded their rightful place in the scheme of life,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu added that his government was working to create an environment where all individuals had the opportunity to contribute, participate and thrive irrespective of gender, ethnic or cultural affiliation.
He said gender equality is a fundamental aspect of social inclusion and that his administration is dedicated to advancing rights of women and girls in Lagos State.
“That’s why we are relentless investing in various developmental and empowerment programmes geared towards promoting gender equality, combating discrimination and gender based violence.
“As we celebrate the International Women’s Day today, we reiterate our commitment to invest more in the development and welfare of women and the girl child because we know that we cannot attain our full potential as a State if a significant part of our population is left behind,” he said.
The governor called for all stakeholders to work together regardless of physical ability to create a more equitable, inclusive and just society where everyone has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
He enjoined stakeholders to to partner with the state government in the course of women development for the progress and development of the State and the Country at large.
First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said women must awake to the challenge of societal demands by being responsive.
Ibijoke urged women to venture into optimising opportunities, while learning new things using the aid of information technologies.
Commissioner for Women and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Mrs. Cecilia Dada, speaking on the theme “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress,” said the theme is a call to action that resonated deeply with the core values of empowerment, equality and inclusive that the government uphold in Lagos State.
While recognising that there are still barriers and challenges that women face, particularly in the areas of access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities and representation in leadership roles, Dada said investing in women is not just a moral imperative, but a smart investment in their collective future.
“When we support and empower women, we unlock their full potentials, drive economic growth, social development and sustainable progress for all,” she said.