By kareem Abiodun
The largest convergence of women from all walks of life gathered at the National Women’s Conference as organized by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) with the theme “Soar Beyond Boundaries …..enrich communities”.
The Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) is a community based gender organisation working to complement the effort of the Lagos State Government to promote child healthcare, empower women to discover their hidden treasures and protect our environment.
COWLSO was founded in 1974 by the wife of the first Military Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Funmilayo Johnson.The dignitaries in attendance which included Governors of Akwa Ibom, Pastor Umo Eno, his Lagos State counterpart, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and a former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, among other top government functionaries, acknowledged the dedication of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) to community development and women’s empowerment.
They gave the commendation at the opening ceremony of the 24th National Women’s Conference, organised by COWLSO, at the Eko Convention Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.Governor Sanwo-Olu commended COWLSO’s significant contributions to healthcare, education, and the economic empowerment of women and youth.
“Projects such as the provision of modern medical equipment to health centres, the construction of schools, and the organisation of skill acquisition programmes have directly contributed to improving the quality of life for Lagosians”, he said.
The Governor also pointed out that COWLSO’s initiatives align with his administration’s THEMES Plus Development Agenda, which focuses on enhancing human capital and promoting inclusive economic growth across the state.
The First Lady also paid tribute to COWLSO’s founding members and acknowledged the leadership of her predecessors, including the current First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency Distinguished Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, as well as former First Ladies Dame Emmanuella Fashola and Mrs. Bolanle Ambode, among others.
Highlighting COWLSO’s achievements, Dr. Sanwo-Olu reported that 13 schools had been renovated with new facilities, and various orphanages were supported with essential items and infrastructure.
Former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, who was specially recognized by COWLSO as the ‘Inspiration Woman of the Year’, expressed her gratitude for the honour. She reaffirmed her commitment to gender equality and the emancipation of women, urging them to remain focused and prioritise the development of children while making time to nurture their wards for tomorrow.
