Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to bridging the gender gap, particularly on the occasion of the 2025 International Women’s Day.
Speaking at a carnival ceremony organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of addressing persistent inequalities and barriers that hinder women from realizing their full potential.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the state’s deliberate policies and initiatives aimed at empowering women across various sectors, including expanding economic opportunities, ensuring access to quality healthcare and education, and promoting women’s leadership and economic participation. He also mentioned the state’s investment in initiatives designed to empower and uplift women, such as the “HE for SHE” program and the Women Development Centre.
The governor noted that his administration has established 19 skills acquisition centers, providing tuition-free training to equip women with the necessary tools to thrive independently. Additionally, the state has implemented policies to protect women from gender-based violence and create opportunities for them to assume leadership roles in governance and decision-making.
The state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, emphasized the crucial role women play in shaping societies and driving progress, despite facing persistent challenges such as gender inequality, economic disparity, and limited access to quality education and healthcare. Dada called on all stakeholders to work collaboratively to accelerate actions needed to close the gender gap.
International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. The day has been observed since the early 20th century and has become a catalyst for women’s rights movements worldwide. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” emphasizes the need for collective action to address the persistent barriers that hinder women’s progress.
Lagos State has demonstrated its commitment to gender equality through various initiatives and policies. The state has established a Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, which is responsible for promoting women’s empowerment and addressing gender-based violence. Additionally, the state has implemented policies to increase women’s participation in governance and decision-making.
The Lagos State Government’s commitment to bridging the gender gap is a step in the right direction. As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, it is essential to recognize the progress made towards gender equality and the work that still needs to be done. By working together, we can accelerate action and create a more just and equitable society for all.