Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on women across Nigeria to boldly assume leadership responsibilities and actively shape policies and institutions critical to national development.
The Governor delivered the charge in a goodwill message presented by the Secretary to the State Government, ’Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, at the 2025 Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) Annual Leadership and Mentoring Conference held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Addressing participants, Sanwo-Olu said the future belongs to women who are ready to lead with courage, influence societal transformation, and take responsibility for decisions that shape communities. He noted that this year’s theme, “Claiming Our Future: Women in Leadership and Policy Transformation,” reflects the urgency for women to take their place in public life.
“Leadership is not defined by titles but by influence, accountability, and the readiness to make a lasting difference,” the Governor said.
“Let us not shy away from leadership roles. Step forward, voice your opinions, and take responsibility for shaping the policies that determine the progress of our communities and our nation.”
Sanwo-Olu commended WISCAR for its consistency in nurturing purpose-driven female leaders and applauded the success of its newly launched Women in Law Mentoring Programme (WILMP), supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. He described the programme as a transformational pipeline equipping women with the skills and confidence to drive reforms and influence governance.
Highlighting Lagos State’s commitment to gender inclusion, the Governor noted that women make up 50 percent of the state’s Permanent Secretaries, and also head several ministries, agencies, and departments—an intentional strategy to strengthen governance and promote inclusive development.
He added that societies flourish when women lead, stressing that institutions become stronger when women take responsibility and participate fully in decision-making.
Sanwo-Olu congratulated WISCAR’s founder and Chairperson, Mrs. Amina Oyagbola, and her team for organizing another impactful conference, expressing confidence that the 2025 edition would inspire renewed commitment to leadership responsibility and policy transformation.
A highlight of the event was the recognition of the Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, who received the WISCAR Award for her contributions to education and women’s advancement.
