Ayodele Olalere
Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his Akwa-Ibom State counterpart, Pastor Umo-Eno, on Tuesday said the government will continue to provide opportunities for women, children and businesses to thrive.
The duo spoke at the opening ceremony of the 24th edition of the National Women Conference organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State, COWLSO, with the theme ‘Soar Beyond Boundaries…Enrich Communities’ held in Lagos.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the conference provided an opportunity to admonish women that a better tomorrow is possible.
He admonished participants to let ‘this year’s conference make a positive change in your life.’
“The change is in ourselves. Change starts with ourselves. Let us work together for a better future,” Sanwo-Olu said.
On his part, the Special Guest of Honour, Governor of Akwa-Ibom State, Umo Eno, who was represented by his Deputy, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi said the conference ‘has added fire to the important role of women.’
“This nation is blessed with patriotic women who can make significant contributions to the nation. When we come together, when you empower one woman, you empower a community,” the governor said.
Governor Umo-Uno thereafter donated N50million to the conference.
Reeling out achievements of COWLSO, the First Lady of Lagos State and Chairman of COWLSO, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu said the committee had carried out projects across the state through donations made by members and donors.
She mentioned some of the projects to include renovation of District Junior High School, Agege, Ifako Comprehensive Senior High School, Ayedare Ajibola High School, and Ifako Senior Senior Secondary School at Ketu and Gbagada, St. Peters Faji Primary School, Lagos Island,Eko Akete Senior Secondary School, Stadium High School, Surulere, Sari Iganmu Senior School, among others.
She added that resources and facilities were also provided for orphanages selected from the five divisions of the state such as Bales of Mercy Orphanage, Home Sweet Home Orphanage, Faith and Grace Compassionate Orphanage, Friends of Jesus Orphanage, among others.
In the area of health the First Lady said from June 24, 2024 till date, 103 individuals have been screened to benefit from free health care, while agricultural training in poultry, fish, snail and crop farming were organised to empower members with useful skills.
She urged participants to ‘push ourselves beyond our set boundaries.
“We must refuse to be average or be satisfied with where we are no matter how good it may be. Never be tempted to live for you, yourself and your family,” she said.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of Inspirational Women of the Year award to Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDG, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire