Sanwo-Olu Vows to Bridge Gender Gap on International Women’s Day
Kehinde Adeleye
On the occasion of International Women’s Day 2025, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu restated the state’s dedication to closing the gender gap.
He acknowledged the event as a critical reminder of the persistent inequalities and barriers that hinder women’s progress and highlighted the urgency of addressing these challenges.
Speaking at a carnival ceremony organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, themed ‘Accelerate Action,’ Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the vital role women play in shaping society and fostering progress.
The event, held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos, underscored the government’s commitment to promoting women’s empowerment and fostering inclusive growth.
He said, ’’In Lagos State, we are not just echoing this theme, we are embodying it through deliberate policies and initiatives that empower women across all sectors.
“From expanding economic opportunities to ensuring access to quality healthcare and education, our administration remains steadfast in bridging the gender gap.
“Through programmes like HE for SHE, we reaffirm our dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where women are seen and heard, included, and empowered.
“We have made significant investments in initiatives designed to empower and uplift women, fostering self-sufficiency, leadership, and economic participation.’’
Sanwo-Olu said that through 19 skills acquisition centres and the Women Development Centre, the state provides tuition-free training across various skill areas, equipping women with the tools they need to thrive independently.
He added, “Our policies are dedicated to protecting women from gender-based violence while also creating opportunities for them to assume leadership roles in governance and decision-making.
“Additionally, we facilitate access to credit facilities and entrepreneurial support, enabling female entrepreneurs to grow and sustain their businesses.”
During the event, Bolaji Dada, the Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, emphasized women’s pivotal role as the backbone of families, communities, and economies.
Dada acknowledged the remarkable progress women have made globally in breaking barriers, defying stereotypes, and substantially contributing to national development.
She said, ’’Despite these achievements, we still face persistent challenge, gender inequality, economic disparity, gender-based violence, and limited access to quality education, healthcare, and leadership opportunities.’’
She called upon stakeholders such as the government, civil society organizations, private sector entities, and individuals to join forces in expediting the necessary steps to bridge the gender gap.
