From Dialogue to Action: Sanwo-Olu Urges Women to Drive Grassroots Change

 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged participants of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) to translate the ideas shared during the National Women’s Conference into concrete actions that will impact lives at the grassroots.

The Governor gave the charge at the closing ceremony of the 25th Annual National Women’s Conference, organised by COWLSO, held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that the next 25 years of COWLSO would depend on how boldly participants continue to mentor, serve, and lead in their respective spheres of influence.

“Every session, every dialogue, every moment of reflection during this conference has deepened our understanding that women are not only development partners, they are drivers of progress,” the Governor said. “From inspiring discussions on leadership and innovation to moving stories of courage and transformation, COWLSO has once again shown that when women rise, societies thrive.”

Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the 25th anniversary celebration was not just about marking a legacy but renewing a movement. “We have reflected on twenty-five years of purpose, passion, and progress. Together, we have envisioned the next generation of women who will carry this legacy forward,” he added.

Highlighting some of the life-changing initiatives emerging from the conference, the Governor said the annual gala raffle draw had moved beyond the excitement of winning to transforming lives. “Stories abound of women and families whose fortunes have changed — from owning cars to receiving homes. The collaborations announced during this conference, providing POS machines and seed capital, represent small but catalytic investments that turn ideas into income and income into opportunity,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu also noted that the ongoing reforms by President Bola Tinubu’s administration were beginning to yield results, citing falling market prices, stability in foreign exchange rates, and easier access to student loans as early signs of progress.

In her remarks, the First Lady of Lagos State and COWLSO Chairperson, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, expressed profound gratitude to God for the success of the silver jubilee edition, themed “25 Years of Visionary Legacy: Inspiring the Next Generation.”

She described the conference as a celebration of women’s strength, brilliance, and resilience, adding that it had provided participants with renewed purpose to drive positive change in their homes, workplaces, and communities.

“Our interactions over the past three days have shown that when women come together with passion and focus, the results are always inspiring,” Dr. Sanwo-Olu said.

She commended the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, for her virtual participation and goodwill message at the opening ceremony, as well as the Conference Planning Committee led by Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Oke-Osanyintolu for their commitment and meticulous execution.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu also appreciated COWLSO members, partners, sponsors, and the media for their unwavering support, urging participants to sustain the momentum of the silver jubilee.

“Let us go forth as ambassadors of COWLSO’s Visionary Legacy — inspiring others and transforming our communities in ways that truly reflect the spirit of this Silver Jubilee,” she said.