The First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, has urged the womenfolk to prioritise the training of young girls in becoming nation-builders.
She said this in her remarks at a programme to mark the 2025 International Women’s Day, organised by her office in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, held in Abeokuta on Thursday.
Mrs Abiodun emphasised the need to mentor young girls by building their confidence, developing their capacities, making them believe in themselves, and enabling them to stand tall alongside the other gender.
She advised the womenfolk to support one another through various collaborations that could be of immense benefit to society for a more prosperous future.
The State Deputy Governor, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who delivered a keynote address at the event, which was well attended by different women’s organisations, also called for collective collaboration among women in achieving desired goals.
Speaking on the theme, “We Can Accelerate Action,” Salako-Oyedele said that the theme underscores the power of support and collaboration for the upliftment of women in the country.
She, therefore, called on Nigerian women to come together and form alliances to advance in all facets of life.
Salako-Oyedele also challenged women aspiring for leadership roles in the country to sufficiently equip themselves with the right knowledge, exposure, and educational training so that they would not be mere pushovers but qualified and competent enough to compete against men.
“No woman climbs the ladder of leadership alone, and neither can any one woman’s singular effort dismantle the deep-rooted barriers that hinder women’s advancement.
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“To truly accelerate action, we must be deliberate about working together—across professions, generations, and political divides—to build a strong and united front that amplifies our collective voice.
“Women must see one another as allies, not competitors. Too often, the struggle for limited opportunities pits us against one another when, in reality, our strength lies in collaboration, mentorship, and the strategic sharing of knowledge and opportunities.”
The State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, disclosed that over 5,000 women have been trained in various vocational skills for financial independence.
She reiterated the concerted efforts of the administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun towards improving the lives of women and young girls.
She revealed that under the Oko’wo-Dapo Scheme, a soft loan initiative to boost the businesses of women in the state, 33,530 women have received over ₦536 million as revolving grants to support businesses.
She said, “As we celebrate this special International Women’s Day, let us remember that empowering women is not an act of charity; it is an investment in a better society.
“Let us continue to be mindful that when we uplift a woman, we uplift a family, a community, and an entire nation. To the incredible women here today, never underestimate the power of your voice, your hands, and your influence.
“Keep pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and setting new records.
“To the men who walk beside us, your support is invaluable, and your commitment lights the way. Yet today, I challenge you to not only stand with us but to lead by example.”
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