Transition from dialogue to action key to advancing grassroots development — Sanwo-Olu

Lagos Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged participants of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) to carry the spirit of the conference back to their communities, urging them to ensure that the conversations become actions, and the inspiration shared becomes a tangible impact in grassroots development.

Governor Sanwo-Olu gave the charge while speaking at the Closing Ceremony of the 25th Annual National Women’s Conference, which took place at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, and organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO).

The governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, noted that the next 25 years would depend on how boldly participants continued to mentor, to serve, and to lead in their various capacities and abilities.

According to Sanwo-Olu, every session, every dialogue, and every moment of reflection during the conference has deepened the understanding that women are not only development partners, but also drivers of progress, saying that “from the inspiring discussions on leadership and innovation, to the moving stories of courage and transformation, COWLSO has once again shown that when women rise, societies thrive.”

He reiterated that the participants, during the conference, had not only celebrated a legacy but had also renewed a movement, noting that they had reflected on 25years of purpose, passion, and progress and equally envisioned collectively the next generation of women who would carry this legacy forward.

The governor highlighted that the conference gala night raffle draw had gone beyond the thrill of winning, saying that it had brought genuine transformation to many lives.

“The stories of women and families whose fortunes have changed from owning a car to receiving a home, as well as initiatives like the collaborations announced during this conference, which provide POS machines and seed support.

“Though they are the small but catalytic investments that convert ideas into income, and income into opportunity, which remind us that empowerment can take many forms, and that generosity, when guided by compassion, creates lasting impact,” said the Governor.

Speaking on the President’s reform, Governor Sanwo-Olu said they were beginning to yield fruit, as people were beginning to see their effect in the prices of materials and foodstuffs that were dropping in the markets; the stability of the foreign exchange market; students having unhindered access to funds for school fees, among others.

“We have seen this in prices that are dropping in the markets; the stability of the foreign exchange market; students having unhindered access to funds for school fees, and more.

“This is the message you should take home – that the Renewed Hope promised by President Tinubu is becoming a reality,” he said.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the First Lady of Lagos State and Chairman of COWLSO, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu expressed profound joy and gratitude to God for the success of the Silver Jubilee edition of the conference, which had the theme: “25 Years of Visionary Legacy: Inspiring the Next Generation.”

She described the 25th anniversary edition as a true celebration of women’s strength, brilliance, and resilience, adding that the conference had provided participants with valuable insights and renewed purpose to drive change in their homes, workplaces, and communities.

“Our interactions over the past three days have once again shown that when women come together with passion and focus, the results are always inspiring,” she said.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu commended all the distinguished guests who graced the conference, particularly the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who joined virtually during the opening ceremony with a heartwarming goodwill message.

Besides, she lauded the Conference Planning Committee led by Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Oke-Osanyitolu, for its commitment and meticulous execution of the landmark edition, just as she equally extended appreciation to all COWLSO members, development partners, sponsors, and the media for their invaluable support.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu, while reaffirming COWLSO’s mission to continue inspiring and mentoring women, charged participants to uphold the spirit of the Silver Jubilee by spreading the values of leadership, compassion, and service.

“Let us go forth as ambassadors of COWLSO’s Visionary Legacy, inspiring others and transforming our communities in ways that truly reflect the spirit of this Silver Jubilee,” she urged.