IWD 2026: Sanwo-Olu Calls For More Inclusion Of Women In Governance

Lagos State governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls, while calling for greater inclusion of women in governance and decision-making across the country.

At the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration in Lagos, themed “Rights. Justice. Action for All Women and Girls #GivetoGain,” the governor stressed that empowering women must go beyond advocacy to deliberate inclusion in leadership and policy processes.

Sanwo-Olu charged public office holders, private sector leaders, and stakeholders to use their positions to strengthen rights, advance justice, and expand opportunities for women, noting that inclusive governance is critical to sustainable development.

“The theme challenges us to move beyond rhetoric. Women’s rights are not optional; they are constitutional obligations. Justice must be accessible, timely and centred on survivors,” he said.

The governor reiterated that his administration, under its THEMES PLUS Agenda, is strengthening legal and institutional frameworks to combat gender-based violence, child abuse, exploitation and discrimination, maintaining a zero-tolerance stance against injustice.

He further emphasised that public institutions must remain accountable, consistent, and firm in protecting vulnerable groups, adding that Lagos aligns fully with the global vision of International Women’s Day.

Also speaking, the First Lady, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, underscored the need to recognise and harness women’s potential as key drivers of national development.

She called for more opportunities that enable women to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Cecilia Dada, described the celebration as a reaffirmation of the government’s policy direction and moral responsibility to prioritise women and vulnerable groups.

According to her, no society can rise above the condition of its women, and the state remains committed to ensuring that women are safe, economically empowered, and actively involved in shaping governance and shared prosperity.

Guest Speaker, Justice Lateefat Oluyemi, urged women to stay focused and make necessary sacrifices, particularly in promoting girl-child education. She also advocated for stronger enforcement of the Child Rights Act and policies that guarantee greater protection and access to justice for women.

The event drew participation from lawmakers, political leaders, community and religious stakeholders, as well as women’s groups, all of whom echoed the call for increased inclusion of women in governance and leadership roles across the state.