The Wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, in partnership with the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), on Monday hosted an educative and mindset transformative International Women’s Day programme themed “Give to Gain” at the Parliament Building, State House, Marina, Lagos.
The event, held on March 30, 2026, was a dynamic blend of mentorship, knowledge transfer, and experiential learning, carefully designed to equip participants—particularly young girls and vulnerable groups—with practical life skills, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Serving as the Master of Ceremonies and Moderator, Mrs Mojisola Agbaje—wife of Dr Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development—steered the programme with engaging interactions.
She was supported by Co-Moderator Mrs Olubusola Ajigbotafe, wife of Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, Commissioner for the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment in Lagos State, who ensured a seamless flow of activities.
The programme featured a lineup of seasoned professionals who delivered practical, real-life insights across critical areas of development.
Mrs Folashade Onanuga, in her session on retirement planning, emphasized the need for early financial discipline, savings culture, and strategic investment, urging participants to think long-term regardless of their current stage in life.
Speaking on business, Mrs Aderonke Afinni highlighted the importance of innovation, consistency, and resilience in entrepreneurship.
She encouraged young aspiring entrepreneurs to start small, remain focused, and leverage available opportunities to grow sustainable ventures.
Mrs Mercy Omotosho delivered an engaging session on public speaking, where she shared techniques for building confidence, overcoming stage fright, and communicating effectively.
Her session included practical demonstrations that actively involved students, making it both educative and highly interactive.
On career development, Mrs Toyin Suarau provided guidance on goal setting, professionalism, and personal branding.
She urged participants to pursue continuous learning, remain adaptable, and uphold integrity in their chosen fields.
Notably, after each session, students were given the opportunity to engage the speakers through interactive question-and-answer segments.
This allowed participants to seek clarification, share personal thoughts, and gain deeper understanding of the insights presented, further enriching the overall learning experience.
In her keynote address, the First Lady described the initiative as a platform for deep learning and mindset reorientation.
Mrs Sanwo-Olu noted that the programme was intentionally structured to inspire participants to see beyond limitations and embrace growth opportunities.
She further emphasized that the combination of insightful sessions demonstrated that “beauty and brains go together,” reinforcing the idea that women can excel intellectually while maintaining their individuality.
According to her, the “Give to Gain” concept is rooted in the principle of selfless impact—encouraging individuals to share knowledge, mentor others, and contribute meaningfully to society.
“This programme is not about financial gain; it is about imparting knowledge, mentoring one another, and transforming mindsets. When you give value, you gain growth, fulfillment, and a better society,” she stated.
The event also stood out for its inclusivity, with participation from a diverse range of institutions. Schools in attendance included Eko Akete Senior and Junior Secondary School, Lagos Island; Girls Senior Secondary School, Ikoyi; and Holy Child Senior Secondary School, Obalende.
Additionally, children from the Correctional Care Centre, Idi-Araba, and participants from the Vocational Rehabilitation Centre for Persons with Disabilities, Owutu, in Ikorodu West LCDA, were actively engaged throughout the sessions, reflecting the programme’s commitment to leaving no one behind.
A major highlight of the event was the guided tour of the Parliament Building, where students were exposed to the legislative environment.
The tour provided them with firsthand knowledge of governance processes, sparking curiosity and interest in civic responsibility and leadership.
Students expressed excitement and appreciation for the opportunity to learn directly from accomplished women and to experience a government institution up close.
Many described the programme as eye-opening and inspiring, noting that it broadened their understanding of career possibilities and personal development.
The 2026 “Give to Gain” International Women’s Day event ultimately reinforced the Lagos State Government’s dedication to empowering women and young people through education, mentorship, and mindset transformation—laying a strong foundation for a more informed, confident, and purpose-driven generation.
INN-HOUSE☆ 