Commitment to Women’s Empowerment in Lagos
Lagos Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has made a strong commitment to advancing policies that support women in the state. His administration is focused on creating impactful initiatives, gathering resources, and forming strategic partnerships to enable women to innovate and lead with confidence. This assurance was made during a speech delivered at the Y2025 Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Wapa Connect Conference, held at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island.
The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, emphasized the importance of building solid partnerships and crafting effective, evidence-based policies. He highlighted that the goal is to ensure that women across Lagos see real, measurable results from these efforts. The administration is dedicated to equipping women and their organizations with the tools, training, and access to finance needed to build sustainable futures, grow businesses, and thrive.
Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed that the mission includes supporting not only bold individuals but also widows, single mothers, young girls, and women with disabilities. He pointed out that investing in women is not just an act of charity but a matter of economics, justice, and prosperity. A society cannot truly thrive if half of its population is left behind, and thus, Lagos is committed to this journey of intentional, ongoing, and inclusive growth.
Key Initiatives and Collaborations
One of the significant initiatives mentioned by the governor is the recently launched Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy Roadmap. This roadmap was built on the real-life experiences of women from all walks of life in Lagos, including entrepreneurs, farmers, professionals, students, and women with disabilities. The initiative aims to break down systemic barriers that hinder women’s economic participation and create opportunities in various sectors such as entrepreneurship, skill development, traditional job markets, agriculture, and emerging industries.
The WAPA Connect Conference serves as a platform for government officials, civil society, organizations, private sector partners, and everyday women from Lagos to collaborate and turn this roadmap into reality. The event highlights the importance of collective effort in achieving meaningful progress and development in the state.
Role of the First Lady and Other Stakeholders
The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, called for deeper collaborations to champion the values of courage, resilience, hope, and innovation that define women in the country. Her office continues to prioritize the empowerment and well-being of all women through financial literacy, self-reliance, and parenting techniques that benefit both male and female children.
Princess Lara Olumegbon-Oyekan, Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs & Poverty Alleviation & Wealth Creation, noted that women have been a powerful force for transformation in society. She emphasized that investing in Lagos women is equivalent to investing in the state’s growth. The committee pledged to continue supporting women’s initiatives and programs that bring about lasting changes.
Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), reiterated that empowering women drives growth and development. Through WAPA, the ministry has trained and supported thousands of women with vocational skills, equipment, and business support. These efforts, along with programs in health, nutrition, agriculture, and gender-based violence response, have transformed lives and strengthened the role of women in Lagos State’s development.
Importance of Collaboration
Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs & Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), highlighted the significance of collaboration between government, private sector, civil society, and communities. She stated that WAPA Connect has become a vibrant platform where ideas are shared, partnerships are built, and opportunities are created. The event brings together women from all walks of life, entrepreneurs, and professionals to inspire one another and chart pathways for greater inclusion in Lagos’ growth story.
Through empowerment programs, skill acquisition centers, micro-enterprise support, and advocacy, the ministry continues to expand possibilities for women and vulnerable groups across the state. The commitment to women’s empowerment remains a central focus, ensuring that no woman is left behind in the journey toward sustainable development and inclusive growth.
