Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has commended the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) for sustaining a legacy of women empowerment, leadership development and community service for 25 years.

Sanwo-Olu, charged the participants of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) to carry the spirit of the conference back to their communities, urging them to ensure that the conversations become actions, and the inspiration shared becomes a tangible impact.

Sanwo-Olu, who spoke through his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, gave the commendation on Thursday at the closing of the 25th National Women’s Conference organised by COWLSO in Lagos.

The governor said the conference, with the theme: “25 Years of Visionary Legacy: Inspiring the Next Generation”, symbolised the strength, creativity and resilience of women in shaping a prosperous Lagos and Nigeria at large.

“COWLSO has become more than an organisation, it is a movement of visionary women whose collective energy continues to uplift families, transform communities and shape public policy,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He described the 25-year journey as a story of courage, compassion and collaboration driven by women who understood that governance would thrive when both men and women would work hand-in-hand for progress.

Sanwo-Olu noted that the next 25 years will depend on how boldly participants continue to mentor, to serve, and to lead in their various capacities and abilities.

According to him, “Every session, every dialogue, every moment of reflection during this conference has deepened our understanding that women are not only development partners, they are drivers of progress. From the inspiring discussions on leadership and innovation, to the moving stories of courage and transformation, COWLSO has once again shown that when women rise, societies thrive.”

The Governor reiterated that during the 25th Anniversary of the Conference, the participants have not only celebrated a legacy but have renewed a movement. He noted that “We have reflected on twenty-five years of purpose, passion, and progress. Together, we have envisioned the next generation of women who will carry this legacy forward,” said Sanwo-Olu.

Speaking further, Sanwo-Olu highlighted that the conference gala night raffle draw has gone beyond the thrill of winning; it has brought genuine transformation to many lives. “The stories of women and families whose fortunes have changed from owning a car to receiving a home, as well as initiatives like the collaborations announced during this conference, which provide POS machines and seed support. Though they are the small but catalytic investments that convert ideas into income, and income into opportunity, which remind us that empowerment can take many forms, and that generosity, when guided by compassion, creates lasting impact,” said the Governor.

Speaking on the President’s reform, the Governor said they are beginning to yield fruit, and people are beginning to see their effect in the prices that are dropping in the markets; the stability of the foreign exchange market; students having unhindered access to funds for school fees, among others.

“From the inception under the visionary leadership of our former first ladies to the vibrant direction of the current Chairperson, Dr (Mrs) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, COWLSO has consistently demonstrated what true partnership and purpose-driven service mean,” he said.

The governor said Lagos State would continue to champion programmes that would promote women inclusion, healthcare, economic empowerment and access to education.

“We have made great strides in ensuring that women in Lagos have equal access to opportunities whether through small business grants, healthcare initiatives or leadership mentoring.

“We are not resting. Our government will continue to support initiatives that enable women to thrive, because when women rise, the entire society prospers,” he said.

He praised the creativity of members of COWLSO who designed the commemorative scarves and symbolic passports for the anniversary.

“It is remarkable what women can achieve when they are challenged to think, to create and to lead.

“COWLSO continues to prove that beauty and brains go together in building our society,” he said.

The governor urged the participants to take lessons from the conference and translate them into community impact, mentorship and positive leadership.

“Let the inspiration from this gathering go beyond these walls.

“Let it reflect in your homes, your communities and your workplaces. You are the torchbearers for the next generation of women,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu thanked wives of governors of other states who participated in the conference.

He also thanked development partners, sponsors, and the media for their contributions to the success of the event.

In her remarks, the Chairperson of COWLSO and Wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, described the 25th edition of the conference as a celebration of vision, resilience and purpose.

Sanwo-Olu expressed profound joy and gratitude to God for the success of the Silver Jubilee edition of the conference, which had the theme: “25 Years of Visionary Legacy: Inspiring the Next Generation.”

“For 25 years, COWLSO has remained a unifying platform for women to exchange ideas, share experiences and drive sustainable development.

“We are proud of our journey and the impact we have made in uplifting women across Lagos.

“This silver jubilee reminds us that our purpose remains strong to build a future where women and men thrive together,” she said.

She described the 25th anniversary edition as a true celebration of women’s strength, brilliance, and resilience, adding that the conference had provided participants with valuable insights and renewed purpose to drive change in their homes, workplaces, and communities.

“Our interactions over the past three days have once again shown that when women come together with passion and focus, the results are always inspiring,” Dr. Sanwo-Olu said. The First Lady commended all the distinguished guests who graced the conference, particularly the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, who joined virtually during the opening ceremony with a heartwarming goodwill message.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu further lauded the Conference Planning Committee led by Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Oke-Osanyitolu for their commitment and meticulous execution of the landmark edition. She extended appreciation to all COWLSO members, development partners, sponsors, and the media for their invaluable support.

Reaffirming COWLSO’s mission to continue inspiring and mentoring women, the First Lady charged participants to uphold the spirit of the Silver Jubilee by spreading the values of leadership, compassion, and service.

“Let us go forth as ambassadors of COWLSO’s Visionary Legacy, inspiring others and transforming our communities in ways that truly reflect the spirit of this Silver Jubilee,” she urged.

She expressed gratitude to all delegates, facilitators and volunteers for making the conference successful, while reaffirming COWLSO’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of female leaders.

“As we close this historic edition, we charge every participant to take the lessons learned into their homes, workplaces and communities.

“Together, we will continue to build a society anchored on compassion, integrity and excellence,” she said.