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Tag: Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu

  • Sanwo-Olu’s wife seeks support for justice, others for GBV survivors

    Sanwo-Olu’s wife seeks support for justice, others for GBV survivors

    • Remodelled GBV unit inaugurated

    Wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has inaugurated the remodelled Police Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Family Support Unit at Police Gender Unit, Ikeja.

    The initiative, she said, would help provide justice and support services for survivors across the state.

    At the handover of the facility, Mrs Sanwo-Olu stated that the intervention further affirmed the government’s efforts to tackle gender-based violence.

    She noted that the facility is repositioned to give hope, healing, and timely response to survivors of domestic and GBV across Lagos.

    Mrs Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the opening of the centre coincidentally, falls within the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, set aside to raise awareness, mobilise action, and call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.

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    According to her, the theme for the yearly global campaign highlights the growing threat of technology-facilitated gender-based violence and calls for action from governments, tech companies, donors, and individuals to combat Gender-Based Violence in the society.

    She said: “Gender-based violence is not just a crime; it is a violation of humanity, a breach of dignity and remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations of our time, affecting nearly one in three women globally.”

    While soliciting the support of stakeholders in tackling this menace across the state, Mrs Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed commitment of the government through the THEMES+ agenda in addressing this challenge of GBV, pointing out that the newly remodelled centre is a testament to the government’s intervention.

    Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, applauded the governor’s wife’s commitment towards advocating against GBV, safeguarding the rights and dignity of women and girls, particularly actualising the project, stressing that the centre will be named after her as a validation of her tireless efforts.

    Jimoh reiterated the facility is an achievement aimed at strengthening justice and safeguarding vulnerable persons, highlighting that the rapid reports of cases of GBV spurred urgent need to revamp the facility for the benefits of the state.

    Also at the event were the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat; Attorney-General/Commissioner of Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro(SAN), Commissioner for Youths and Social Development, Mr. Bolaji Ogunlende, Permanent Secretaries, chairmen of local governments, top government functionaries, members of Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), and their Police Officers Wives Association counterparts and other Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

  • Why Lagos is progressing, by governor’s wife

    Why Lagos is progressing, by governor’s wife

    The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has thanked the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), other religious leaders, and the entire Christian community for their steadfast prayers and unwavering spiritual support, which she said continue to contribute to the growth, peace, and development of Lagos State.

    Dr. Sanwo-Olu made this known at the fifth edition of Lagos Praise, an annual interdenominational Christian concert organized by her Office. The event, themed “Freedom Through Praise”, held at the LTV Blue Roof, Agidingbi, Ikeja, provided a powerful atmosphere of thanksgiving, heartfelt worship, and passionate praise.

    Highlighting the spiritual essence of the gathering, the First Lady quoted Psalm 67:3 – “Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee” – emphasizing that praise remains a divine catalyst for attracting the presence of God.

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    According to her, “Psalm 22:3 declares that God inhabits the praises of His people. With this assurance, we are confident that God is with us, and He will continue to do wonders in our lives, both individually and collectively as a State.”

    She explained that the theme for this year, drawn from Acts 16:25-26, reflects the miraculous deliverance of Paul and Silas from prison – a clear demonstration of the power of prayer and praise to bring about divine intervention.

    “As the First Family of Lagos State, we deeply value gatherings such as this. At the beginning of this administration, we introduced the Monthly Praise and Worship Programme, held every last Thursday in partnership with CAN, Lagos Chapter. This has been consistently hosted at Lagos House, Marina and Ikeja, as a symbol of our trust in God for daily guidance and breakthroughs,” she added.

    Dr. Sanwo-Olu also extended her gratitude to all residents of the state for their prayers and overwhelming support for the administration, affirming that Lagos State and Nigeria will continue to enjoy God’s peace that surpasses all understanding.

  • Sanwo-Olu’s wife, Alabi rally women for APC candidates

    Sanwo-Olu’s wife, Alabi rally women for APC candidates

    Ahead of the Saturday local government election, wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and Chairman of Bariga Local Council, Kolade Alabi, have rallied women across the council area to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairmanship candidate, Bukola Omope Adedeji and other candidates.

    At a women’s interactive session held at the Bariga Conference Centre, Legislative Complex, Dr Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by member of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Dr. Grace Igbokwe, emphasised the role of women in shaping leadership and commended Adedeji’s commitment to public service.

    Alabi urged female constituents to remain politically active and lend their support to Adedeji, whom he described as a dedicated public servant and a key figure in his administration.

    The event, attended by women from various sectors—including market women, widows, council workers, and members of Community Development Associations—featured panel discussions and stakeholder engagements aimed at encouraging women’s participation in the forthcoming election.

    APC Chairmanship candidate, Bukola Adedeji, who served as the Secretary to the outgoing administration, outlined her plans for the council if elected, with a focus on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.

    Adedeji promised to prioritise women and children in her programmes.

    Wife of Ooni of Ife, Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, described Adedeji as diligent and result-oriented.

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    While reiterating that the royal family is apolitical, she said it was important to acknowledge credible individuals in politics.

    Other notable figures at the event included Lagos APC Women Leader, Jumoke Okoya-Thomas; Commissioner at the National Population Commission (NPC), Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye; Vice Chairman of Bariga LCDA, Adeola Kuponiyi; and Bariga Legislative Council Leader, Temitope Okanlawon.

    Lagos State House of Assembly members representing Somolu I and II, Orekoya and Olufemi Apata, were also present, alongside eight councillorship candidates, APC State Financial Secretary Doyin Banjo, and Bariga APC Chairman, Akin Mejolagbe.

  • Sanwo-Olu’s wife, Nwachukwu, others eulogise First Lady’s RHI

    Sanwo-Olu’s wife, Nwachukwu, others eulogise First Lady’s RHI

    The wife of Lagos Governor, Dr (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has presented some professional kits, comprising scrubs and crocs to nurses and midwives in Lagos State under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) of First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

    The presentation ceremony made on behalf of the First Lady by Mrs Sanwo-Olu, who is the Lagos State Coordinator of RHI, was held at the Banquet Hall of the Office of the First Lady, Alausa, Ikeja on Monday. The event was attended by the wife of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, as well as top government officials.

    Sanwo-Olu praised Senator Tinubu’s visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to improving maternal and child health results nationwide.

    She said: “This presentation is more than a distribution of kits; it is a message that we acknowledge your dedication, celebrate your service and stand with you in delivering quality healthcare.”

    She recalled that the RHI has already been launched in all the geopolitical zones of the country, with Lagos State’s presentation following the recent Southwest regional rollout in Akure, Ondo State, where 10,000 sets of scrubs and Crocs were distributed.

    The 10,000 kits were officially handed over to the beneficiaries through the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, as Dr. Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the state’s commitment to advancing healthcare delivery and supporting frontline health workers.

    She commended the resilience and compassion of nurses and midwives, describing them as “pillars of strength” in the healthcare system.

    “Your service goes beyond duty, it is a calling,” she said, while assuring them of continued recognition and the government’s support.

    The wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, praised the Renewed Hope Initiative for its transformative impact, underscoring the significance of equipping healthcare workers with essential tools to enhance maternal and child health.

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    She commended Senator Tinubu for her compassionate leadership and called for a renewed commitment to service excellence, community engagement and accountability in the healthcare sector.

    “Quality healthcare must be a right for all, not a privilege,” she stated.

    The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, expressed gratitude to the Senator for her tireless efforts in uplifting women, children and vulnerable populations through the RHI.

    He described nurses and midwives as the “heartbeat of our healthcare system,” even as he noted that presenting these kits was both a symbolic and practical gesture to support and empower them.

    In his speech at the event, the Eze Ndigbo of Lagos State, Christian Nwachukwu (JP) described the First Lady as a true mother who has the interest of Nigerians at heart and who loves to help people to improve their lives.

    He added that “Senator Tinubu has launched several empowerment programmes aimed at supporting women and youth in various sectors, including agriculture, business and education. These programmes focus on providing resources, training and mentorship to help women and young people achieve economic independence and contribute to national development.”

    Eze Nwachukwu noted that the presentation of the kits to health personnel in Lagos State indicates how committed Senator Tinubu has been in providing quality healthcare for Nigerians, especially women and children.

    Eze Nwachukwu further stated that Mrs Tinubu’s initiatives are complementary to President Tinubu’s efforts toward ensuring that better days are here again.

  • Sanwo-Olu advocates increased investment in tech education

    Sanwo-Olu advocates increased investment in tech education

    Wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has called for increased investment in education and digital innovation among youths, with emphasis on the inclusion of the boy-child in national development efforts.

    She made the call during the second edition of the Future Innovators Festival 2.0, held in Lagos with the theme: “Ignite: Building Future Innovators.” The event attracted over 5,000 participants, including students from 83 schools, educators, school proprietors, tech enthusiasts and representatives from corporate organisations.

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    The festival showcased an array of engaging activities such as robotics and virtual reality demonstrations, talent exhibitions, music and dance performances, innovation competitions, school pitches and awards ceremonies.

    In her keynote address, Dr. Sanwo-Olu emphasised the importance of nurturing technological talent from an early age and urged stakeholders to ensure equal opportunities for girls and boys in innovation and education.

    She shared her interaction with a student, Alex Kazim, whom she described as calm, articulate and intelligent — a shining example of what young Nigerians could achieve when given the right platform.

  • Sanwo-Olu’s wife empowers 500 Lagosians with vocational tools

    Sanwo-Olu’s wife empowers 500 Lagosians with vocational tools

    Wife of Lagos State Governor Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has empowered 500 skilled workers with tools as part of initiatives of the Office of the First Lady to tackle unemployment.

    Tagged ‘2024 Community Sensitisation and Empowerment’, the event held at the Lagos House in Ikeja. It was the sixth edition since the start of the Sanwo-Olu administration in 2019.

    Beneficiaries of the initiatives included hairdressers, auto-mechanics, shoemakers, caterers, carpenters, tilers, vulcanisers, make-up artists, tailors, barbers, popcorn makers among other vocations.

    Mrs. Sanwo-Olu, represented by wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hazmat, urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the tools for themselves and to empower others.

    According to her, this edition was an improvement from past editions as more tools were incorporated into the programme based on assessed needs and feasibility studies carried out by her office.

    “As we present these tools that support trades such as hairdressing, catering, fashion design, barbing, tailoring, and other vocational skills, we are not merely handing over equipment, but we are delivering hope, dignity, and the instruments of independence.

    “We believe that true economic empowerment must be holistic, combining both skill acquisition and access to the necessary tools. This is why we deliberately designed two different approaches, starting with financial education and now proceeding to the practical phase with tools that will help our beneficiaries build wealth, generate income, and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic growth of our beloved state.

    “The truth is that when people are equipped with the right tools, they become builders not just of livelihoods but of vibrant, thriving communities.

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    “To our beneficiaries, you are the heartbeat of this initiative. Your stories will validate our efforts. Your success will inspire others and your journey, from empowerment to enterprise, will reinforce what is possible when purpose is matched with opportunity.

    “Please, do not trivialize this gesture. We count on you to help reduce unemployment by using these tools to uplift yourselves and, ultimately, impact others positively,” she said.

    The governor’s wife assured the beneficiaries that some of them will be patronized for their services in future government events.

    Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Cecilia Dada, represented by Mrs. Toyin Salami, hailed the governor’s wife for the intervention. She noted that such initiative shows that every Lagosian deserves to thrive and succeed.

    “Government is committed to supporting initiatives like this in line with the THEMES+ agenda. This empowerment is a seed, so nurture it and let it grow,” she urged the beneficiaries.

  • Ibijoke a woman of virtues, says GAC

    Ibijoke a woman of virtues, says GAC

    The Governance Advisory Council (GAC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has congratulated the wife of Lagos State governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, on the occasion of her 58th birthday.

    The party elders hailed her passion for service, noting that she had been a pillar of support for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in the course of implementing his THEMES agenda.

    GAC said in a statement in Lagos that Dr. Sanwo-Olu had given her husband the needed peace at home, thereby enabling the chief executive to concentrate on the task of governing the fifth largest economy in Africa and spreading the dividends of democracy to Lagosians.

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    The apex party leadership organ also praised the governor’s wife for using the experience of her medical profession in initiating mother and child empowerment programmes.

    GAC described Mrs. Sanwo-Olu as a woman of substance, whose humility, simplicity, integrity and honour had inspired other women in positions of trust and responsibility in the state.

    It added: “Dr. Sanwo-Olu is a professional, a devoted wife and mother of promising children, who performs her duties at the home front, while also serving as a pillar of support for our dynamic and hardworking governor in the performance of his duties.

    “As you celebrate your 58th birthday, we pray to God to grant you long life and more opportunities to serve humanity.”

  • Women Affairs Minister celebrates Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu on 58th birthday 

    Women Affairs Minister celebrates Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu on 58th birthday 

    Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has congratulated the wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, on her 58th birth anniversary.

    She described the First Lady as a visionary leader who has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the welfare of women and children in the state.

    In a statement on Wednesday by her Special Adviser on Media, Mr Jonathan Eze, the Minister noted that Mrs Sanwo-Olu has touched countless lives, inspired hope, and has promoted positive change in the state playing supportive roles to her husband.

    The statement reads in parts: “Today, I join the Sanwo-Olu family, the good people of Lagos State, and Nigerians across the country in celebrating the birthday of an exceptional individual, Her Excellency, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.

    “As the First Lady of Lagos State, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the welfare and well-being of Lagosians, particularly in the areas of healthcare, education, and women empowerment.

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    “Through her various initiatives, she has touched countless lives, inspired hope, and promoted positive change in the state.

    “As we celebrate this remarkable woman, we honour her selflessness, compassion, and leadership. We pray that God grants her continued good health, wisdom, and strength to keep shining as a beacon of hope and inspiration.”

    The Minister added that she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering women and children, particularly in areas of education, healthcare, and economic development.

    The statement reads further: “Her Excellency, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has been instrumental in driving healthcare reforms in Lagos State, focusing on improving access to quality healthcare services for all citizens.

    “She has initiated various programs aimed at promoting education and skills development among young people, equipping them with the skills needed to compete in the modern economy.

    “She is known for her grassroots approach to leadership, engaging with local communities and listening to their concerns to inform policy decisions, among others.

    “Happy birthday, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu! May this special day be filled with joy, love, and all your heart’s desires.”

  • Afro-Brazilian heritage promotes cultural diversity in Lagos – First Lady

    Afro-Brazilian heritage promotes cultural diversity in Lagos – First Lady

    The wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has said that the importance of preserving the Afro-Brazillian cultural heritage is to promote cultural diversity for future generations of Lagos and the country.

    She said that cultural heritage is a reminder that culture remains a bridge that connects us all and also of the resilience and spiritual depth of our forefathers.

    Speaking at the 3rd annual celebration of the Afro-Brazilian Heritage Festival, hosted by the Brazilian Descendants Association, Lagos, Sanwo-Olu said that the Brazillian community reminds everyone of the richness of our shared heritage and the vital role it plays in shaping our collective identity.

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    According to her, the community has long been an integral part of Lagos, contributing immensely to its cultural tapestry.

    She added that the celebration promotes unity, understanding, and respect among the cultural and ethnic communities that call Lagos home.

    She said: “The influence of this community is evident in our architecture, fashion, cuisine, and social traditions. Events like this further affirm the importance of preserving and promoting our cultural diversity for future generations.

    “These displays not only entertain us but also educate us, offering invaluable insights into the resilience, creativity, and ingenuity of a people who have seamlessly blended their Brazilian roots with the rich cultural environment of Lagos.”

  • Lagos launches new initiative to combat TB

    Lagos launches new initiative to combat TB

    By Emmanuel Chidi-Maha

    In a significant effort to combat tuberculosis (TB) in Lagos State, First Lady Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu inaugurated the Local Government and Local Council Development Areas (LGA/LCDA) TB Champions, the Lagos State TB Steering Committee, and the Lagos STOP TB Partnership on October 8, 2024. The event took place at the First Lady’s Banquet Hall and marked a pivotal step in the state’s commitment to eradicating TB.

    During her address, Dr. Sanwo-Olu emphasised the need for collaboration and community leadership in tackling TB. She highlighted alarming statistics, noting that approximately 2.4 million Nigerians are affected by the disease, with about 32,000 cases reported in Lagos alone. “We must act now,” she urged the newly appointed TB champions, who are mostly female leaders and the wives of local government chairpersons.

    The First Lady recognised the vital role of women in advocacy, stating, “Women are powerful. The men are the heads, but the women are the neck.” She encouraged these leaders to mobilise resources and raise awareness about TB prevention and treatment within their communities. To make their advocacy more effective, she suggested creative, cost-effective methods such as community drawings, social media campaigns, and grassroots efforts. “Prevention is better than cure,” she reiterated, reminding attendees that TB screening and treatment are free for those in need.

    Dr. Sanwo-Olu also called for immediate action. “Within 48 hours of your investiture, start taking action. You have a responsibility to your community,” she declared. She emphasised the importance of the STOP TB Partnership and TB Steering Committee in mobilising resources and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders.

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    Lagos Commissioner for Health, Professor Abayomi, echoed her concerns, revealing that about 32,000 individuals in Lagos live with undiagnosed TB, with only 515 cases identified this year. “That means there are 15,000 people walking around with tuberculosis who haven’t been diagnosed,” he warned. Highlighting the infectious nature of TB, he noted that each untreated individual could infect up to 15 others annually, leading to a potential epidemic.

    Professor Abayomi stressed the critical role of community involvement in identifying and treating TB patients. “You must talk to your husbands and tell them that this programme is crucial,” he urged the female leaders. He provided an overview of treatment protocols, explaining that TB requires a rigorous regimen of antibiotics over six months. He underscored the importance of Directly Observed Treatment (DOT) to ensure adherence and prevent drug-resistant strains.

    Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, reinforced the call for community engagement. She urged the newly appointed TB champions to advocate for increased awareness and mobilise resources for TB prevention efforts. “Organise community events and sensitisation programmes to educate people about TB,” she advised.