Women in Ogun State have joined various stakeholders in supporting the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for another four-year term in 2027.
Over 5,000 women gathered at the Royal Pavilion of the Awujale’s Palace on Monday in Ijebu-Ode to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
The event was attended by female political office holders drawn from the 20 local government areas of the state.
The women noted that President Tinubu’s women-focused policies and inclusive governance are commendable, while urging themselves to convert their numerical strength into tangible political power.
The guest lecturer at the event, Senator Abiodun Olujimi, stressed that women must rise above existing limitations and take deliberate steps towards greater inclusion in governance and decision-making processes.
She noted that women remain underrepresented in politics and called for stronger support systems, mentorship, and collaboration to secure a better future for young girls.
The former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State stressed that “International Women’s Day is not just a celebration but a moment for deep reflection on the structural reforms required to secure the future of the Nigerian girl-child.”
Olujimi argued that existing social and legal frameworks have continued to fail Nigerian women, likening the collective strength of women to a circle, “unbreakable and undefeated.”
She urged women to identify, support, and stand by credible leaders, referencing the inclusive governance style of President Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun, while emphasising the need for women to support one another politically and socially.
The First Lady of the state, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, encouraged women to take advantage of various government initiatives and social welfare programmes designed to improve their well-being.
She urged participants to leave the event with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to innovation, growth, and community development.
Mrs Abiodun said, “The responsibility for a greater future rests not only on our shoulders but on our Permanent Voters’ Cards. Women must remain united and support leaders who recognise their value and contribution to governance.”
The Deputy Governor, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, commended the efforts of the administrations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun in fostering inclusive governance and national development.
She called for increased female representation in leadership, expressing optimism that Nigeria will witness more women occupying top political offices.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, described the theme “Give to Gain” as a call to action, emphasising that sustainable progress can only be achieved through sacrifice, shared responsibility, and intentional investment in one another.
According to Adeleye, “Women have remained central to Ogun’s development through family stability, commerce, community building, and increasing participation in governance and the private sector.”
She attributed the achievements being celebrated to deliberate leadership and inclusive policies at both federal and state levels, commending President Tinubu for reforms aimed at economic recovery and inclusive growth, as well as Governor Dapo Abiodun for sustaining women-focused initiatives under the ISEYA development agenda.
Adeleye announced the empowerment of 50 women with N200,000 cash grants each and 500 women with N50,000 cash grants respectively.
The event drew a large gathering of women leaders, professionals, and stakeholders, reinforcing the collective resolve to promote gender equality and empower women and girls across the state.
