The Lagos women empowerment IWD conversation took a decisive turn as Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and the First Lady, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, called for bold, measurable actions to secure the rights and economic power of women across the state.
Eko Hot News reports that the call was made during the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised that empowering women economically is central to inclusive growth, stressing that investments in legal protection, social systems, and leadership opportunities will remain key priorities under his administration.
He noted that the celebration must go beyond symbolic gestures, urging stakeholders to move “from awareness to enforcement, from promises to performance, and from celebration to structural change.”
Aligning with the global theme “Rights. Justice. Action for All Women and Girls,” the governor said Lagos is committed to building a system where rights are protected, justice is accessible, and opportunities are expanded for all women.
He further introduced the campaign message “Give to Gain,” describing it as a governance principle rooted in accountability and measurable impact.
“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,” he stated.
Also speaking, the First Lady stressed that progress must translate into real-life outcomes, calling for increased investment in women’s capacity building, access to finance, and leadership development.
She urged stakeholders to support more women in elective positions and strengthen systems that protect women’s rights at home, in communities, and within institutions.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, highlighted the need for collaboration among government, civil society, and development partners, noting that entrepreneurship and digital training remain critical tools for empowerment.
Other stakeholders, including Iyabo Eletu, Omolara Oyekan-Olumegbon, and retired Justice Atinuke Oluyemi, echoed calls for stronger institutional support, increased political representation, and improved access to justice for women.
Participants unanimously agreed that achieving gender equality requires consistent policy implementation, inclusive governance, and collective action to ensure women and girls enjoy dignity, safety, and equal opportunities.
The 2026 International Women’s Day celebration brought together political leaders, policymakers, civil society groups, and young advocates, reinforcing Lagos State’s commitment to advancing gender equality and building a more inclusive future.
