IWD 2026: Sanwo-Olu Calls for Measurable Impact in Advancing Women’s Rights

By Love Oyedokun

LAGOS, NIGERIA – March 8, 2026 – Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has issued a resounding call for tangible progress in the realm of women’s rights and economic empowerment. Speaking at a vibrant celebration held in Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu declared that genuine, sustainable development for the state is inextricably linked to the full and meaningful inclusion of women in all facets of society.

Cablenews24 reports that Governor Sanwo-Olu who stated this in a powerful address marking the 2026 International Women’s Day, underscored his administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where women are not only protected but are actively propelled towards social and economic advancement. The International Women’s Day observance served as a crucial platform for the Governor to reaffirm the state’s dedication to policies that champion gender equality and dismantle barriers to women’s full participation.

“Meaningful development, the kind that truly uplifts our communities and propels our state forward, cannot be achieved in a vacuum,” Governor Sanwo-Olu stated with conviction. “It is impossible to build a truly prosperous Lagos if half of our population, our women, are not fully integrated, empowered, and given equal opportunities to contribute their immense talents.”

The core of the Governor’s message resonated with a plea for tangible outcomes. He urged stakeholders across government, civil society, and the private sector to move beyond mere pronouncements and celebratory events towards concrete actions that yield measurable impact. The annual observance of International Women’s Day, he emphasized, should serve as a catalyst for substantive change, not just a symbolic gesture.

“This year’s International Women’s Day celebration must serve as a turning point,” Governor Sanwo-Olu challenged the assembled guests and the wider Lagos populace. “We must see this occasion propel us from mere awareness to robust enforcement of existing laws and the creation of new ones that protect women. We must transition from making promises to demonstrating concrete performance. Our celebrations must be a prelude to fundamental structural changes that embed gender equality at the very foundation of our society.”

The Governor elaborated on the critical role of empowering women as a central driver for inclusive economic growth. He highlighted that strategic investments in key areas are paramount to achieving this objective. These investments, he explained, span a broad spectrum:

• Legal Protection: Strengthening and rigorously enforcing laws that safeguard women against all forms of discrimination and violence. This includes ensuring swift and fair justice for victims and holding perpetrators accountable.
• Social Systems: Developing and reinforcing social support structures that enable women to balance their personal and professional lives. This could encompass accessible childcare facilities, supportive workplace policies, and comprehensive healthcare services.
• Leadership Opportunities: Actively creating pathways for women to ascend to leadership positions across all sectors – from government and business to academia and community organizations. This involves mentorship programs, leadership training, and dismantling the unconscious biases that can impede women’s progress.

Governor Sanwo-Olu pointed out that continued investment in these areas is not merely a matter of social justice; it is a fundamental component of the state’s overarching development agenda. By unlocking the full potential of its female population, Lagos can harness a powerful engine for innovation, economic productivity, and societal advancement.

The Governor’s address was a clear call to action, inviting all stakeholders to join hands in this critical endeavor. He stressed that the responsibility for advancing women’s rights and expanding their economic opportunities does not rest solely with the government but requires a collective effort. The administration’s commitment is to provide the framework, resources, and policy direction, but the sustained effort to achieve measurable impact must be a shared undertaking.

On the campaign message, ‘Give to Gain’, the governor said it reflects a governance principle anchored on measurable outcomes.

“When government gives access to education, we gain productivity. When we give protection under the law, we gain safer communities. When we give women economic opportunity, we gain inclusive growth. When we give girls the right environment to thrive, we gain innovation and long-term development.

‘Give to Gain’ is not a slogan. It is a governance principle grounded in evidence and accountability. It reflects the understanding that investment in women yields measurable social and economic returns.

“As we move forward, I charge those in positions of authority to ensure that their influence strengthens rights and advances justice, while the private sector plays its part in expanding opportunity and inclusion. Our public institutions must remain anchored in accountability, firm, consistent, and non-negotiable. And to the women and girls of Lagos State, this administration stands resolute in its commitment to protect your rights, enforce justice, and sustain meaningful action.”

Also speaking, the First Lady, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said the celebration should drive real change rather than symbolic gestures.

“Progress must go beyond aspiration. It is time to move from words to action—ensuring justice is accessible and opportunities are intentional for every woman and girl. Let us support more women for elective positions in the forthcoming election. We need more women in public offices. Let us strengthen the support system. Let the rights of women be protected at home, in the community and in institutions,” she said.

In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders.

“We must recommit ourselves to building systems that protect rights and create opportunities. Empowering women through entrepreneurship and digital training remains key to sustainable development,” she stated.

Other stakeholders, including APC Women Leader Iyabo Eletu and House Committee Chairman on Women Affairs, Omolara Oyekan-Olumegbon, also called for sustained collaboration, stronger policies and increased representation of women in leadership positions.

Guest Speaker, Justice Atinuke Oluyemi (rtd), urged greater commitment to protecting women and children from exploitation and discrimination, stressing the need for justice, inclusion and social protection.

Participants at the event agreed that achieving gender equality requires deliberate policies, institutional support and collective action to ensure women and girls enjoy equal opportunities, safety and dignity.

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