by Abiodun Jimoh
Prominent figures from various sectors recently gathered at the “Empowering Women: Driving Good Governance and Economic Growth” conference, emphasizing the critical role of women in fostering sustainable development.
The event, which took place in Lagos highlighted the need for greater female representation in governance and economic decision-making as a cornerstone for national progress.
The conference was graced by several distinguished personalities, including His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi (Kusenla III), Elegushi of Ikateland & Environs, Eti-Osa, Lagos State, who was ably represented by Alhaji Olanrewaju Bakare as the Father of the Day.
In his keynote address, Oba Elegushi underscored the historical significance of women in leadership roles within Nigerian society, urging modern governance structures to draw from this heritage.
“Women have always been the bedrock of our communities,” he stated, “and it is high time their contributions are adequately acknowledged and integrated into our national policies.”
The Guest Speaker, Victoria Ibanga, Publisher of the Next Edition Online Newspaper and former General Secretary of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, echoed this sentiment.
She stressed the importance of breaking barriers that hinder women from attaining leadership positions, calling for deliberate efforts to address these disparities. “We cannot afford to ignore the potential of half our population,” Ibanga remarked. “Empowering women is not just a moral imperative but a necessary strategy for achieving good governance and robust economic growth.”
The event also saw the participation of former NAWOJ Presidents, Mrs. Toro Oladapo and Yeye Ifeyinwa Omowole, who have been influential in advocating for women’s rights and representation in the media.
Mr. Adeleye Ajayi, Chairman of the NUJ Lagos State Council, attended alongside the entire NUJ State Executive Committee, reinforcing the importance of media support in driving the conversation on women’s empowerment.
Significant support was also shown by the Chairmen of the NUJ Oyo and Ogun State Councils, who have been steadfast in their solidarity with Lagos NAWOJ.
Leaders and representatives from the NAWOJ B-Zone, including Chairpersons and Secretaries from Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti states, were present to demonstrate regional support for the cause.
The presence of Mrs. Abimbola Oyetunde, NUJ National Trustee Zone F and General Manager of Bronze FM Benin City, alongside Hajia Ayisat Cole, National Assistant Secretary, further underscored the commitment of NAWOJ and NUJ leadership to the cause of women’s empowerment.
Special recognition was given to the event’s sponsors, including Oba Elegushi, NUJ Lagos Council, Viju Milk, Checkers Custard, and various leaders, friends, and family members, whose contributions were pivotal in making the conference a success.
The event concluded with a call to action for policymakers, corporate leaders, and civil society organizations to implement gender-inclusive policies and practices.
Participants agreed that for Nigeria to achieve its full potential, women must be empowered to contribute fully to governance and economic activities.
As the conference drew to a close, there was a strong sense of hope that the discussions and commitments made would lead to tangible improvements in the status of women across Nigeria.
The Chairperson NAWOJ, Lagos State Chapter
Dr. Adeola Ekine who delivered the opening speech, emphasized that the journey towards gender equality is a collective one that requires the involvement of all sectors of society.
