2026 IWD: Stakeholders Highlight Women’s Role In Development

Stakeholders in Ekiti State have called for increased support for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji ahead of the June governorship election, as the Wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, reaffirmed her commitment to women’s empowerment at the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration.

The collaborative event between the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and the Office of the First Lady was held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti. It brought together women leaders, civil society organisations, government officials, and development partners to highlight the importance of gender equality and inclusive development.

Speaking at the programme, Dr Oyebanji emphasised that empowering women remains central to sustainable growth, noting that this year’s campaign slogan, “Give to Gain,” underscores the benefits of investing in women.

She commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for declaring 2026 as the Year of Families and Social Development, describing it as a step towards prioritising women, children, and vulnerable groups.

The First Lady also highlighted ongoing initiatives by the state government under Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, including partnerships with Development Agencies on programmes such as the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) and the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up.

She added that her Office, through platforms like the Widows, Aged and Orphans Hope Support Foundation, would continue to support women, children, and vulnerable groups across the state.

Dr Oyebanji further appealed to women to sustain their support for the current administration, especially as the State prepares for the governorship election.

Also speaking, the Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, commended the First Lady for driving positive change among women and urged more support for Governor Oyebanji’s second-term bid.

Similarly, former Senate Minority Leader, Senator Biodun Olujimi, stressed the critical role of women in society and called for strategic voter mobilisation to ensure continuity in governance.

The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN), expressed appreciation for the efforts of the First Lady and the Deputy Governor in advancing women-focused initiatives, pledging his Ministry’s continued support.

In her welcome remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, said the Oyebanji administration had prioritised women’s welfare through empowerment programmes, social protection, and various efforts to combat gender-based violence.

She noted that beneficiaries across the State received tools, financial support, and access to education through various interventions, while survivors of gender-based violence are being provided with medical, legal, and psychosocial support.

Also lending her voice, the Special Adviser on Gender Empowerment and Mobilisation, Chief (Mrs) Kemisola Olaleye, commended the First Lady for her dedication to women’s welfare and called on female political stakeholders to mobilise grassroots support for the Governor.

The keynote speaker at the event, Professor Kemi Ogundana from the Ekiti State University (EKSU), described the “Give to Gain” slogan as a call for collective action, stressing that investing in women leads to economic growth, improved health outcomes, and stronger communities.

She urged individuals, organisations, and policymakers to intensify efforts in mentorship, funding, and advocacy to advance gender equality.