Nigeria First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has called on women across the country to strive towards building a nation where every woman can truly contribute to the prosperity and progress of Nigeria.
Speaking as a guest of honour at the 23rd edition of the annual women conference, organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos state officials (COWLSO), the Wife of the President said that a woman is naturally empowered to reshape the nation and must leverage on her strength to exhibit potential inherent in them optimally.
Tinubu explained that women have potential that if appropriately unleashed, could transform the society.
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“Our diversity is our strength, and it is within this diversity that we find the wellspring of our potential. As women, we have the power to shape the future, to be leaders, to be innovators, to be caregivers, and to be agents of positive change. But to unleash our potential fully, we must continue to break down barriers that limit our progress, challenge stereotypes, and foster an environment of equal opportunity for all.
“Education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and gender equity are essential pillars that will enable us to unleash our potential. We must work together, collaborate, and support one another to ensure that every woman in Nigeria has the tools and opportunities to reach her full potential.
Let us remember that our potential is not just about personal success; it is about uplifting our families, communities, and our great nation as a whole. When women are empowered, society thrives.”
“I call upon each and every one of you to embrace the theme of this conference, “Unleash Your Potential,” not only for your benefit but for your individual States and the benefit of our beloved Nation,” she said
23 years ago
The host governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu thanked all the past leaders of COWLSO who have kept the conference going for 23 straight years, beginning with the First Lady of the Federal Republic, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The Governor said her vision was clear, “to create a platform that will bring women together to discuss and develop ideas and solutions that will help to place them at the centre of national development.”
“The theme for this edition, “Unleash Your Potential”, has followed the inspiring pattern of the last two Conferences which have been a clarion call to women. In 2021, our women were called to “Awake” from their slumber and, in 2022, they were charged to “Spring Forth and Stand Out”, to make themselves ready to take their rightful place in National development. This year, you are being called to “Unleash your Potentials”, to be more productive and positively influence the society. This theme is very apt in view of the current challenges that Nigeria is facing, and the need for us to be more intentional and determined in our efforts to harness the innate ability and capacity of women to drive the Renewed Hope agenda at the national level, and similar initiatives being implemented at the sub-national levels.”
He said the gathering is an opportunity to exploit the collective power and potential of individuals, particularly the women.
“Lagos State Government, under my leadership, stands firmly committed to the vision set forth by COWLSO, because we recognize the pivotal role that empowered women play in the development and progress of every society.”
“Our commitment extends beyond rhetorics to tangible action, and we pledge to invest in programmes that empower women, providing them with the resources, education, and opportunities necessary for them to thrive in their chosen endeavors. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity, a critical part of our T.H.E.M.E.S+ Governance Agenda, we aim to unlock the full spectrum of human capabilities that will drive sustainable progress and prosperity for all.”
He said his administration has continued to contribute to the promotion of the ideals and objectives that are transforming the State and the lives of the citizens.
Governor Sanwo-Olu maintained that many interventions of COWLSO in critical sectors such as Health, Education, Environment, and Youth development are impacting positively on the lives of the people of Lagos state.
Inspiring conference
The Chairperson of COWLSO, Dr (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu mentioned that the conference has been inspiring with records of landmark interventions that have been in the overall interest of women.
Sanwo-Olu stressed that the conference is an avenue through which the wives of the officials of the State Government promote child healthcare and education, empower women to discover their hidden treasures, and protect the environment, among others.
“The conference has the objective of inspiring ideas and robust intellectual conversations on issues affecting women and girls, and also men and boys.”
“The founding objectives of COWLSO is to impact lives positively and contribute immensely to the political and socio-economic growth of Lagos State and Nigeria, and it is gratifying that the committee has commissioned numerous projects to the benefits of the people, ranging from Education, Environment, Wealth Creation, Market development among others.”
The event currently ongoing at Eko hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos will come to a close on 19th of October, 2023.
