Ogun commissioner seeks S’West unity to bridge gender gap

 

The Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Motunrayo Adeleye, on Thursday, called for stronger collaboration among women in the South-West to close the gender disparity gap, strengthen families, and enhance women’s empowerment for a more stable and prosperous nation.

 

Adeleye made the call in Abeokuta while speaking at the Pre-Council Workshop for the Ministries of Women Affairs in the South-West zone, held in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.

 

The workshop is part of preparations for the 25th National Council of Women Affairs, slated to be held in Edo State later this year.

 

The commissioner described the workshop as more than a routine meeting, but rather a convergence of purpose—a call to action and an opportunity to reflect, reimagine, and realign collective strategies for empowering women, protecting the vulnerable, and strengthening families and communities.

 

“At a time when gender disparities continue to hinder collective advancement, this forum provides fertile ground for robust dialogue, policy brainstorming, and experience-sharing that will shape the outcomes of the forthcoming National Council of Women Affairs”, Adeleye stated.

 

She added, “Here in Ogun State, we take pride in our commitment to inclusive governance. Our Ministry has continued to implement impactful initiatives focused on gender equity, economic empowerment, child protection, and support for the elderly and persons with disabilities.

 

“But we know that no state can walk this journey alone. Collaboration, as we are witnessing here today, is the soul of progress. I therefore urge us to engage deeply, speak boldly, and listen intently.”

Adeleye urged participants to let their conversations be guided by facts, driven by compassion, and rooted in the vision of a Nigeria where women are not just seen but heard, respected, and empowered.

 

“Let us challenge ourselves to leave here not just with reports and recommendations, but with renewed resolve and actionable plans that will transform lives in every corner of our region,” she added.

 

Speaking at the workshop, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr Maryam Keshinro, emphasised the importance of the workshop, noting that it allows for critical brainstorming and knowledge-sharing on how to improve the lives of women across the country.

 

Represented by Ameh Esther from the ministry, Keshinro said the deliberations would focus on the presidential priority areas of the Renewed Hope Agenda, especially as they relate to actualising the presidential mandate for women, children, families, and vulnerable groups.

 

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ogun State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Adejumoke Adewole, said the workshop offered a valuable opportunity to reflect, deliberate, and assess the progress made in advancing the rights and well-being of women and the girl child in Nigeria.

 

Adewole added that the state government is proud of its proactive measures, including the establishment of Gender Desk Officers across ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as relevant local government areas. These measures have created referral pathways for survivors of gender-based violence and run grassroots awareness campaigns