Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering women and fostering inclusiveness as part of efforts to achieve gender equality and sustainable development in the state.
Speaking on Friday at the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that his government will continue to implement deliberate policies and initiatives that uplift women across all sectors.
This year’s IWD, themed “Accelerate Action”, served as a rallying call for bold and decisive steps to bridge gender gaps. The Governor noted that Lagos is not only echoing this theme but actively embodying it through its THEMES+ agenda.
“Today’s celebration is not just a date on the calendar; it is a powerful reminder of the vital role women play in shaping our societies and driving progress,” Sanwo-Olu said. “The theme ‘Accelerate Action’ underscores the urgency of addressing persistent inequalities and breaking down barriers that prevent women from realizing their full potential.”
As part of the day’s activities, Governor Sanwo-Olu announced the distribution of thousands of climate and eco-friendly stoves to women present at the event, with further distributions planned at the local government level starting Monday. The initiative aims to promote environmental sustainability while supporting women with practical tools for daily living.
Highlighting some of the state’s efforts to empower women, the Governor pointed to various programs, including the He for She initiative, which encourages men to actively participate in gender equality efforts.
“Through 19 Skills Acquisition Centers and the Women Development Centre, we offer tuition-free training in different skills, equipping women to be self-sufficient,” Sanwo-Olu added. “We are also creating access to credit facilities and entrepreneurial support, allowing female entrepreneurs to grow and sustain their businesses.”
The Governor also stressed the importance of mental health, urging women to prioritize their emotional well-being, given the multidimensional roles they play in society.
He commended his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for her unwavering advocacy for maternal and child healthcare, praising her for amplifying the voices of countless women. He further acknowledged the support of his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat; and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada.
In her remarks, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu assured women that policies would be strengthened to create equal opportunities in governance and business, ensuring no one is left behind.
Hon. Bolaji Dada, in her welcome address, praised the Sanwo-Olu administration for championing women’s empowerment and disclosed that the Lagos State Executive Council has approved the domestication of the Economic Empowerment Policy in Higher Institutions.
The event featured insightful lectures, including one by Prof. Olurotimi Coker, a Consultant Psychiatrist at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja. He underscored the link between positive mental health and women’s overall well-being, encouraging them to adopt stress management techniques such as dancing, laughing, and journaling.
Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, also spoke on the need for women to embrace financial independence by tapping into opportunities in the circular economy.
The colorful celebration was attended by top government officials and various women’s groups from the 20 local government areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of Lagos State. Clad in a touch of purple, they participated in a vibrant march-past, symbolizing unity and strength.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to accelerating action for gender equality signals a brighter future for women in Lagos, with concrete steps being taken to foster an inclusive and progressive society.
