…Implores older women to look beyond individual success at COWLSO conference

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said that each generation has a responsibility to leave something better for those coming after it, imploring older women to look beyond individual success and create successes in other younger ones.

Speaking on Tuesday at the 26th Annual National Women’s Conference by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials, (COWLSO), Sanwo-Olu noted that every generation inherits something from those who came before it.

“Some inherit opportunities created through years of sacrifice and determination. Others inherit challenges that remain unresolved. But each generation has a responsibility to leave something better for those coming after it,” Sanwo-Olu said.

“That, to me, is the message at the heart of this year’s conference theme, “Anchored in Purpose: Be the Blueprint.” It challenges us to look beyond our personal achievements and consider the examples we are setting, the opportunities we are creating and the legacy we will leave behind.

“This year’s gathering holds a special significance for my dear wife and me. It is the eighth and final edition of this conference that we will host in our present capacities as Governor and First Lady of Lagos State.

“For us, therefore, this occasion brings a deep sense of gratitude and an opportunity to reflect on a journey that has been both fulfilling and inspiring.”

Sanwo-Olu not only thanked his wife, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for the passion, dedication and compassion she has brought to the leadership of COWLSO, but also all those who worked with her in organising the conference and other programmes of COWLSO.

The governor noted that one of the greatest strengths of COWLSO is that its work has continued across successive administrations.

“That is an important lesson for all of us in public service. Leadership is temporary, but the institutions we strengthen and the opportunities we create can endure long after our tenure,” Sanwo-Olu said.

“In Lagos, we recognize that women’s economic participation is essential to our development. Through initiatives such as the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, skills acquisition programs, support for entrepreneurship and investments in education and healthcare, we have continued to expand opportunities for women and young people.

“We recognize, however, that much more remains to be done. The true measure of our efforts is the difference they make in people’s daily lives. I also believe that being the blueprint places a responsibility on women who have attained positions of influence.

“I encourage our accomplished women in business, the professions, public service and other fields, to look beyond your individual success. How many younger women are you preparing for success? How many doors are you opening? How are you using your experience and influence to make the journey easier for those coming behind you?

“The young woman entering the workplace today should find more opportunities than her mother did. The girl growing up in one of our communities should be able to pursue her ambitions without being limited by circumstances beyond her control. That is the kind of future we must work together to build.”