Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has commended the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) for sustaining a legacy of women empowerment, leadership development and community service for 25 years.

Mr Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, gave the commendation on Thursday at the closing of the 25th National Women’s Conference organised by COWLSO in Lagos.

The governor said the conference, with the theme: “25 Years of Visionary Legacy: Inspiring the Next Generation”, symbolised the strength, creativity and resilience of women in shaping a prosperous Lagos and Nigeria at large.

“COWLSO has become more than an organisation, it is a movement of visionary women whose collective energy continues to uplift families, transform communities and shape public policy,” Mr Sanwo-Olu said.

He described the 25-year journey as a story of courage, compassion and collaboration driven by women who understood that governance would thrive when both men and women would work hand-in-hand for progress.

“From the inception under the visionary leadership of our former first ladies to the vibrant direction of the current Chairperson, Dr (Mrs) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, COWLSO has consistently demonstrated what true partnership and purpose-driven service mean,” he said.

The governor said that Lagos State would continue to champion programmes that would promote women’s inclusion, healthcare, economic empowerment and access to education.

“We have made great strides in ensuring that women in Lagos have equal access to opportunities, whether through small business grants, healthcare initiatives or leadership mentoring.

“We are not resting. Our government will continue to support initiatives that enable women to thrive, because when women rise, the entire society prospers,” he said.

He praised the creativity of members of COWLSO who designed the commemorative scarves and symbolic passports for the anniversary.

“It is remarkable what women can achieve when they are challenged to think, to create and to lead.

“COWLSO continues to prove that beauty and brains go together in building our society,” he said.

The governor urged the participants to take lessons from the conference and translate them into community impact, mentorship and positive leadership.

“Let the inspiration from this gathering go beyond these walls.

“Let it reflect in your homes, your communities and your workplaces. You are the torchbearers for the next generation of women,” he said.

Mr Sanwo-Olu thanked the wives of governors of other states who participated in the conference.

He also thanked development partners, sponsors, and the media for their contributions to the success of the event.

In her remarks, the chairperson of COWLSO and wife of the Lagos State governor, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, described the 25th edition of the conference as a celebration of vision, resilience and purpose.

“For 25 years, COWLSO has remained a unifying platform for women to exchange ideas, share experiences and drive sustainable development.

“We are proud of our journey and the impact we have made in uplifting women across Lagos.

“This silver jubilee reminds us that our purpose remains strong to build a future where women and men thrive together,” she said.

She expressed gratitude to all delegates, facilitators and volunteers for making the conference successful, while reaffirming COWLSO’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of female leaders.

“As we close this historic edition, we charge every participant to take the lessons learned into their homes, workplaces and communities.

“Together, we will continue to build a society anchored on compassion, integrity and excellence,” she said.

(NAN)