Daud Olatunji
Ogun State has taken the lead in advancing gender reforms in Nigeria’s Southwest region, with the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, calling for stronger inter-state collaboration to promote women’s empowerment, tackle gender-based violence, and drive inclusive development.
Speaking on Thursday, in Abeokuta at the opening of the Southwest Pre-Council Workshop ahead of the National Council of Women Affairs meeting, Adeleye described the gathering as a “convergence of purpose” to reframe policies and share best practices for addressing challenges facing women and vulnerable groups.
“This is not just a meeting; it’s a convergence of purpose,” she said. “We are here to reflect, reimagine, and realign strategies that can transform lives—especially those of women and vulnerable groups in our communities.”
Stressing Ogun’s commitment to gender justice, Adeleye announced the expansion of the state’s Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) response infrastructure.
She said “from just one centre a year ago, the state now operates four SGBV response centres, one in each senatorial district.
“Today, we can say survivors have a place of refuge, and beyond refuge, they have hope through training and rehabilitation,” Adeleye stated.
She noted that each centre is equipped with a temporary shelter and a women development centre for vocational and life skills training, with two of the facilities ready for immediate commissioning.
Adeleye admitted that limited funding remains a key challenge for state governments but credited strategic planning and the support of Governor Dapo Abiodun for enabling Ogun’s measurable progress.
She cited a recent emergency response by the ministry to assist a 19-year-old mother of triplets abandoned at a public hospital, describing it as a testament to Ogun’s quick-response system for vulnerable women.
“When you empower a woman, you empower a whole nation,” she emphasized. “It’s a continuous process—we can never do enough.”
The workshop, co-organized by Ogun State and the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, attracted stakeholders from all Southwest states, including gender advocates, policymakers, and development partners.
Participants are expected to harmonise positions on key issues such as women’s political participation, economic empowerment, gender equity, and social welfare policies.
These resolutions will form the Southwest’s collective submission at the upcoming National Council of Women Affairs summit.
Adeleye charged delegates to speak boldly and collaborate deliberately. “The progress of one state strengthens the entire region,” she said.
Breakout sessions and technical roundtables are scheduled to continue throughout the week in Abeokuta.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
