wife of the Vice-President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Dolapo, has charged the first female national president of the Nigerian Association of Chambers Of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Chief Alaba Lawson, to teach other women, especially young girls how to be accomplished and great.
She gave the charge during the investiture of Lawson as NACCIMA’s 19th national president on Thursday, at the Marquee of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library.
Mrs Osinbajo, who pointed that it took almost 20 years for a woman to become the national president of the association, congratulated the new president, Ogun State and NACCIMA for the landmark achievement.
“It is very important for me to be here for several reasons. The first is to rejoice with those who are rejoicing. Ever since I met Iyalode Alaba Lawson, she has been full of joy with lovely smiles, unbelievable energy and drive. It took almost 20 years for the mantle to rest on the shoulder of a woman, this is the second reason I am here.
“It is important to celebrate accomplished women that have been identified and honoured. When I told the president’s wife I was coming and why, she was so excited. I know if she could have made it, she would come because this is a day we have to show women powers,” Mrs Osinbajo said.
The governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, who was the chief host of the event, while delivering his address, stated that Iyalode had added to the long lists of first that Ogun State usually recorded.
In her acceptance speech, the newly installed national president of NACCIMA, who thanked God for making the day a reality, disclosed that the road to the exalted office was tortuous but eventful.
On her plans for the association, Lawson said: “The policy thrust of my administration within the 24 months of its span shall place high premium on empowering the informal sector of the Nigerian economy with a special focus on SMEs.”