The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and his Nasarawa State counterpart, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, have called on women to be involved in the ongoing efforts towards food security, family sustenance, and community development in Lagos State and in Nigeria as a whole.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, while speaking on Wednesday at the closing ceremony of the 2024 National Women’s Conference, organized by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, said that there is a need for more women to ‘Soar Beyond Boundaries’ especially in political offices, agriculture, and other critical areas in line with the Conference’s theme.
He urged women to challenge societal norms and take active roles in agriculture, specifically subsistence farming, as a means to provide food security and uplift their households.
Governor Sanwo-Olu who acknowledged the insights gained from a lecture on “Smart Garden Farming”, at the Conference, urged women to harness modern farming techniques to foster sustainable livelihoods.
He highlighted the significance of agriculture not only in feeding families but also in creating jobs and empowering communities.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also stressed the importance of collective effort and collaboration in agriculture, stating that women, through partnerships and networking, can innovate and drive positive change.
He called on them to embrace lifelong learning, skills development, and personal growth to remain adaptable and contribute effectively to their families and communities.
Governor Sanwo-Olu reiterated the need for women to prioritise their health to contribute fully to society, noting that access to quality healthcare is fundamental to building resilient communities.
The Governor also used the opportunity of the event to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to supporting women through initiatives in agriculture, healthcare, education, and empowerment programmes.
The Nasarawa State Governor, who served as the Special Guest at the closing ceremony of the 2024 National Women’s Conference (NWC), urged participants to take the invaluable knowledge gained from the event and apply it towards transforming their communities.
He emphasised the importance of leveraging the insights shared during the conference to drive positive change at both local and national levels.
The Governor, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajia Aisha Rufa’i Ibrahim, encouraged the participants to draw inspiration from remarkable women across Nigeria who have excelled in their various fields, continuously shaping and influencing society for the better.
He highlighted the significance of their achievements as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and innovation in overcoming societal barriers.
He noted that with the right mindset and collaborative efforts, women can spearhead initiatives that not only strengthen family units but also contribute to national growth.
He, however, urged women to remain steadfast in their commitment to progress, reminding them that their collective actions will ultimately shape a brighter and more inclusive future for the next generation.
As part of her advocacy for sustainable living, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, in her closing remarks at the event, encouraged women to embrace farming and home gardening as a way to reduce dependence on purchased food items and to also improve the health quality of food consumed.
She lauded the “Every Home A Garden” initiative spearheaded by the First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, which encourages households to grow their own food. Dr. Sanwo-Olu urged the women in attendance to embrace the initiative.
“Farming, especially home gardening, is not only cost-effective but also an opportunity to cultivate food that can be consumed by our families”, she said.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu also urged women to mentor the next generation by instilling in their children the values of hard work, discipline, and sustainability.
She emphasised that the future of Nigeria’s youth is closely linked to how today’s women manage current challenges.
“As we conclude this remarkable conference, let us note these crucial lessons: embrace modesty, promote home gardening, practice prudence in spending, and mentor the next generation”.
