By Kemi Akintokun and Aderonke Ojediran
The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where women will be adequately empowered to thrive in their respective fields.
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu made this known at an event organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) on Friday to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the IWD is marked every March 8 globally to celebrate women’s achievements and advocate for gender equality, and the 2025 Edition has the theme: “Accelerate Action.”
Sanwo-Olu said that the state’s policies are dedicated to protecting women from gender-based violence, while also creating opportunities for them to assume leadership roles in governance, decision-making and entrepreneurial support.
According to him, these policies will enable female entrepreneurs to grow and sustain their businesses.
He said: “This globally significant event is not merely a date but a powerful reminder of the essential role women play in shaping our societies and driving progress.
“This year’s theme serves as a clarion call to move beyond rhetoric and take bold, decisive steps towards achieving gender equality and empowering women.
“In Lagos, we are not just echoing this theme; we are embodying it through deliberate policies and initiatives that empower women across all sectors
“We have made significant investments in initiatives designed to empower and uplift women, and to foster self-sufficiency, leadership, and economic participation through the 19 tuition-free skills acquisition centres and the Women Development Centre.”
He highlighted that these efforts aligned with global priorities, and recognise women as powerful catalysts for economic growth, innovation and societal transformation.
Sanwo-Olu commended the WAPA for engaging women in the state actively through its numerous programmes and interventions over the years.
Also, Mrs Bolaji Dada, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, said that it would continue to empower women and girls through its training initiatives.
Dada noted that women who are the backbone of families, communities would continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes and contribute immensely to national development.
She noted that in spite of these achievements, women still face persistent challenges such as gender inequality, economic disparity, gender-based violence, limited access to quality education, healthcare and leadership opportunities.
The commissioner called for urgent action and commitment to advance the rights and opportunities of women in Lagos and the country at large.
“As a ministry, we have been unwavering in our commitment to support women through empowerment programmes, training initiatives and advocacy.
“We have created platforms that equip women with the skills and resources they need to be financially independent and self-sufficient.
“The challenges women face whether at home, workplace, or in the society can take a significant toll on their mental and emotional well-being.
“We must move beyond promises to practical solutions that will empower women and uplift the vulnerable,” Dada stressed.
NAN reports that women from all the state’s local governments and local council development areas converged at the Onikan Stadium, venue of the programme to celebrate the IWD.
The Wife of the state governor, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; Wife of the deputy governor, Oluremi Hamzat; and wives of other top government officials in the state were present at the event.
