Mrs Bolaji Dada, Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), has emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights of women and girls through concrete actions that promote inclusive and sustainable development.
In a statement issued on Sunday to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD), the commissioner stated that this year’s theme highlights the urgent need to strengthen access to justice for all women and girls.
International Women’s Day is celebrated globally every March 8 to recognize women’s contributions to society and to spotlight issues affecting their rights and opportunities.
The 2026 IWD theme is “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” while the accompanying global campaign theme is “Give to Gain.”
Dada explained that the theme calls for practical, results-oriented steps that translate policies into real, tangible improvements in the lives of women and girls in communities across the state.
She noted that the campaign focus on “Give to Gain” reinforces the principle that sustained investment in women and girls—through education, empowerment, protection services, and structured social support systems—delivers long-term benefits for families, communities, and Lagos State as a whole.
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According to her, empowering women is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic pathway to economic growth and societal stability.
“Under the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration, the state continues to implement transformative programmes and policies aimed at protecting women’s rights, promoting economic inclusion, and strengthening institutional responses to gender-based violence,” she said.
The commissioner commended the resilience, innovation, enterprise, and invaluable contributions of women across all sectors of the state. She acknowledged their pivotal roles in governance, business, education, health, community development, and nation-building.
Dada encouraged women and girls to actively participate in government initiatives and empowerment programmes designed to promote their wellbeing and advancement.
She advised all residents of the state to uphold the principles of human rights and urged women and girls to embrace the message of IWD in building a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society for present and future generations.
