Sanwo-Olu, wife demand action on Women’s rights, economic empowerment

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called for decisive action to strengthen women’s rights and expand economic opportunities, declaring that meaningful development cannot be achieved without full inclusion of women.

Speaking at the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration in Lagos, the governor said his administration remains committed to policies that protect women and promote their social and economic advancement.

Sanwo-Olu stressed that empowering women is central to inclusive growth, noting that investments in legal protection, social systems and leadership opportunities will continue to drive the state’s development agenda.

He urged stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and deliver measurable impact.

“The International Women’s Day celebration must move us from awareness to enforcement, from promises to performance, from celebration to structural change,” he said.

He added: “Lagos State stands firmly, aligned with the global call of International Women’s Day 2026, themed ‘Rights. Justice. Action for All Women and Girls. This theme is deliberate. It demands responsibility. It challenges governments to move beyond rhetoric and deliver measurable outcomes.

“Gender inclusion and protection remain embedded in our development blueprint under the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda. Sustainable growth cannot occur where half the population is denied opportunity, safety, or voice. Rights must be protected by law and reinforced by systems.”

On the campaign message, ‘Give to Gain’, the governor said it reflects a governance principle anchored on measurable outcomes.

“When government gives access to education, we gain productivity. When we give protection under the law, we gain safer communities. When we give women economic opportunity, we gain inclusive growth. When we give girls the right environment to thrive, we gain innovation and long-term development.

‘Give to Gain’ is not a slogan. It is a governance principle grounded in evidence and accountability. It reflects the understanding that investment in women yields measurable social and economic returns.

“As we move forward, I charge those in positions of authority to ensure that their influence strengthens rights and advances justice, while the private sector plays its part in expanding opportunity and inclusion. Our public institutions must remain anchored in accountability, firm, consistent, and non-negotiable. And to the women and girls of Lagos State, this administration stands resolute in its commitment to protect your rights, enforce justice, and sustain meaningful action.”

Also speaking, the First Lady, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said the celebration should drive real change rather than symbolic gestures.

“Progress must go beyond aspiration. It is time to move from words to action—ensuring justice is accessible and opportunities are intentional for every woman and girl. Let us support more women for elective positions in the forthcoming election. We need more women in public offices. Let us strengthen the support system. Let the rights of women be protected at home, in the community and in institutions,” she said.

In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders.

“We must recommit ourselves to building systems that protect rights and create opportunities. Empowering women through entrepreneurship and digital training remains key to sustainable development,” she stated.

Other stakeholders, including APC Women Leader Iyabo Eletu and House Committee Chairman on Women Affairs, Omolara Oyekan-Olumegbon, also called for sustained collaboration, stronger policies and increased representation of women in leadership positions.

Guest Speaker, Justice Atinuke Oluyemi (rtd), urged greater commitment to protecting women and children from exploitation and discrimination, stressing the need for justice, inclusion and social protection.

Participants at the event agreed that achieving gender equality requires deliberate policies, institutional support and collective action to ensure women and girls enjoy equal opportunities, safety and dignity.