Omobolaji Adekunle
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with the Federal Government on initiatives aimed at empowering women and improving their economic well-being.
The Governor made this known on Tuesday in Abeokuta during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim. He was represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr. (Mrs.) Noimot Salako-Oyedele.
Governor Abiodun acknowledged the vital roles women play as home builders—the bedrock of society—and emphasized their contributions to national development. He stressed the importance of amplifying women’s voices and ensuring they are adequately supported.
“Our administration has prioritized women through various empowerment programmes and has brought their issues to the forefront. We recognize the efforts of the Federal Government in supporting women in agriculture, trade, vocation, and other areas that enhance livelihoods. Ogun State has the political will and is willing to serve as a pilot for any Federal Government programme that uplifts women,” he affirmed.
He also commended the Minister for her impactful leadership and assured her of Ogun State’s readiness to collaborate on projects that will benefit women across Nigeria.
In her remarks, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim noted that women’s empowerment remains a top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. She highlighted the government’s plans to scale up women-focused initiatives nationwide to promote self-reliance and boost national development.
She explained that her visit was aimed at assessing Ogun State’s women empowerment strategies and providing an opportunity for commissioners from Anambra, Gombe, and Zamfara states—part of her entourage—to learn from the state’s successes.
“I commend the Ogun State Government for the transformation taking place and for being a shining example of gender sensitivity. Your efforts should be emulated by other states,” the Minister stated.
Separately, the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, also expressed her appreciation to the Minister for her unwavering support for women in the state. Speaking during an empowerment programme at the Women Development Centre, Asero, Abeokuta—where food items and essential supplies were distributed—Mrs. Abiodun praised the resilience and industrious nature of Ogun women.
“Ogun women are hardworking and dedicated. They strive every day to provide for their families. The Minister’s visit is a testament to her genuine concern for the welfare of our women, and we thank her deeply for that,” she said.
Hajiya Sulaiman-Ibrahim, in turn, applauded the state’s gender-inclusive governance, citing Ogun as a model for other states to follow. She emphasized the federal government’s ongoing commitment to women’s development, including access to opportunities under Nigeria’s envisioned $1 trillion economy.
She also called for an end to gender-based violence and human trafficking, urging collective efforts to empower women so they can fulfill their potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Adijat Oladipo-Adeleye, also highlighted the state’s proactive approach, noting that Ogun operates four ‘Safe Centres’ that not only provide shelter for abused women but also offer vocational training and skill acquisition.
She expressed gratitude to the state government and the governor’s wife for their continued support and commitment to advancing the status of women in the state.
