Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has called on women across Nigeria to embrace responsibility and confidently step into leadership roles to shape policy, institutions, and national development.
The governor’s charge was delivered via a goodwill message read by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, at the 2025 Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) Annual Leadership and Mentoring Conference, held over the weekend at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Claiming Our Future: Women in Leadership and Policy Transformation,” Sanwo-Olu stated that the future belongs to women who are willing to take responsibility, lead with courage, and influence decisions that shape society.
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He emphasised that true leadership is defined not by titles, but by influence, accountability, and the readiness to make a lasting difference.
“Let us not shy away from leadership roles. Step forward, voice your opinions, and take responsibility for shaping the policies that determine the progress of our communities and our nation,” the governor urged.
Reaffirming the state’s commitment to women’s leadership, the governor highlighted measures taken to promote inclusive development.
The composition of the state’s body of permanent secretaries includes 50% female representation and women head numerous ministries, agencies, and departments in the state.
Sanwo-Olu stressed that the state will continue to create opportunities for women to contribute meaningfully.
He stated that “societies flourish when women lead and take responsibility, institutions become stronger.”
The governor commended WISCAR, led by Chairperson and Founder Amina Oyagbola, for its consistent dedication to nurturing women leaders.
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He highlighted the success of the newly launched Women in Law Mentoring Programme (WILM) supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, describing it as a “transformational leadership pipeline” that equips mentees with the confidence and skills needed to influence governance and drive reform.
A key highlight of the event was the recognition of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Folashade Ogunsola, with a WISCAR award for her contributions to education and women’s advancement.