Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, said that the future of Lagos and Nigeria depends on how boldly women are equipped to lead with courage and conviction.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 25th National Women’s Conference of the Committee of the Wives of Lagos State Officials, Sanwo-Olu implored women to renew their collective resolve to build on great legacy.

The governor stated that 25 years ago, a simple yet powerful idea was born — that the wives of Lagos State officials could come together to serve, to uplift, and to make a difference.

“From that vision came COWLSO — a movement that has transformed compassion into community impact, and inspiration into enduring legacy. Today, we gather not only to celebrate a milestone but to honour the women whose vision, strength, and service have defined this remarkable journey.

“Over the past quarter-century, COWLSO has grown from a modest initiative into a dynamic platform of change — one that has touched countless lives through healthcare missions, educational support, empowerment programmes, and community development projects. It has become a rallying point for women who believe that leadership is not about titles, but about transforming lives.”

The governor noted that the conference theme, “25 Years of Visionary Legacy: Inspiring the Next Generation”, reminds all that legacy is not about the past; it is about the future that prepares others to lead.

“One of the most heartwarming traditions of this Conference is the annual Gala Night Raffle Draw — an event that combines celebration with empowerment. Beyond the excitement it brings, the gifts — from cars to houses and other life-enhancing prizes — have transformed lives and inspired hope. Many of the winners have experienced real socio-economic uplift: small business owners now have better mobility to grow their enterprises, civil servants have gained greater comfort and stability, and families have found renewed dignity and joy through unexpected blessings. It is a shining example of how generosity, when thoughtfully expressed, can translate into empowerment and enduring impact.

“I am also delighted to welcome our distinguished guests — Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, who joins us for the opening ceremony, and Governor Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State, who will be with us for the closing ceremony.

Your presence underscores the national importance of this conference and your shared commitment to the advancement of women in our society.”

In her welcome address, the first lady of Lagos, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, maintained that over the past 25 years, COWLSO has remained a formidable platform for empowering women, promoting family values, and supporting government initiatives through carefully designed programmes in healthcare, education, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, and social welfare.

“This Silver Jubilee edition marks a remarkable milestone, a celebration made possible through the vision and dedication of my predecessors, beginning with our revered matriarch, the late Mrs. Olufunmilayo Johnson, and continuing with Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as my dear sisters and former First Ladies of Lagos State, Dame Abimbola Fashola and Mrs. Bolanle Ambode.”

She stated that the theme was carefully chosen and is both timely and instructive, as it challenges members to reflect on the journey of the past two and a half decades, appreciate the collective achievements, and recommit themselves to nurturing the next generation of women leaders, professionals, and changemakers.

“Through this annual conference, women from all walks of life have found a rallying point to exchange ideas, build networks, and sharpen their capacity to influence positive change in society.”
She mentioned several impactful projects the association has executed.

“Our love for the environment also remained unwavering. Over the past year, we led market sanitation advocacy campaigns in Oshodi, Surulere, Epe, and Mushin, promoting cleanliness and hygiene while empowering market women through the provision of POS machines in partnership with private sponsors.

“Each of these interventions was implemented in collaboration with relevant Ministries: Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation; Youth and Social Development; Basic and Secondary Education; Health; Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development; and Environment.

“While these contributions may not be easily quantifiable in monetary terms, their impact on humanity, touching the lives of boys, girls, persons with disabilities, the elderly, mothers, and families, is immeasurable.”