The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Mrs. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has reiterated the importance of empowering women as a strategic pathway to sustainable economic development and inclusive growth.
The First Lady made the call at the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration organized by the First Bank Women Network, held at the Balmoral Hall of the Sheraton Lagos Hotel on Friday.
Mrs. Sanwo-Olu, who was represented at the event by Mrs. Mojisola Agbaje, wife of the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje delivered a keynote address themed “Give to Gain.”
The event brought together policymakers, financial sector leaders, corporate executives, and women-focused organizations to deliberate on strategies for strengthening women’s participation in leadership, entrepreneurship, and national development.
In her message, the Lagos First Lady commended the leadership of the First Bank Women Network for fostering progressive conversations aimed at improving the wellbeing and socio-economic prospects of women.
She noted that the theme of the engagement reflects the importance of collective responsibility and collaboration in driving sustainable progress.
According to her, societies that invest in empowering women and young people ultimately experience broader economic growth, stronger communities, and lasting social transformation.
“The theme ‘Give to Gain’ reminds us that sustainable progress is built on a culture of contribution, partnership, and shared responsibility. When institutions invest in women and youth, the benefits multiply across communities and generations,” the First Lady stated.
She further observed that the global observance of International Women’s Day continues to highlight the immense contributions of women to nation-building, economic advancement, and social transformation.
While celebrating the achievements of women, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu emphasized the need to intensify efforts aimed at creating inclusive pathways that enable women to participate fully in leadership roles and decision-making processes.
She noted that the administration of the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has remained committed to gender inclusion, economic empowerment, and the expansion of opportunities that enable women to thrive across various sectors.
According to her, empowering women is not only a moral responsibility but also an economic imperative capable of strengthening families, expanding businesses, and building resilient societies.
The First Lady also applauded the First Bank Women Network for creating a platform that facilitates engagement between policymakers and corporate leaders on critical issues such as economic resilience, security of businesses, and structured public–private collaboration.
She emphasized the significant role corporate institutions play in advancing inclusive economic development, urging organizations to intensify mentorship programmes, invest in women-led enterprises, promote skills development, and support community development initiatives.
Mrs. Sanwo-Olu also commended the Chief Executive Officer of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Olusegun Alebiosu, for his leadership and the bank’s commitment to fostering a thriving business environment.
She acknowledged the keynote speaker, Tope Omage, Non-Executive Director of First Bank, for delivering insightful perspectives that enriched the discussions during the event.
The Lagos First Lady further recognized the presence of Kemi Andu Alausa, wife of the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, alongside other distinguished personalities and stakeholders from the financial sector who attended the programme.
She expressed optimism that the conversations and collaborations emerging from the platform would translate into impactful initiatives that strengthen women’s economic participation and contribute to the continued prosperity of Lagos State.
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2026, it is important for everyone present here to inspire more women to step into leadership, pursue innovation, and contribute boldly to the growth and development of our society,” she said.
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