Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commended the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) for contributing to community development, support for vulnerable residents, the elderly, widows, orphanages, among others
Sanwo-Olu, who made the commendation during the closing ceremony of the 26th National Women’s Conference organised by COWLSO in Lagos on Wednesday, and themed: “Anchored for Purpose: Be the Blueprint,” urged COWLSO to encourage one another and sustain the unity among the group.
“If anything, we need to keep the flag flying, we need to keep the flame burning and we need to keep the spirit going for COWLSO today, for COWLSO tomorrow and for COWLSO of future generations,” he noted.
He also encouraged COWLSO to document the recommendations made at the end of their annual conference and ensure that they are put into good use, as well as to enable successive administrations and relevant to study and implement them.
While commending the group for judicious use of resources, Governor Sanwo-Olu said funds raised through registration fees and other contributions had supported medical screening programmes, school construction, homes for the elderly and interventions for disadvantaged groups across the state.
He stressed that the annual gathering should go beyond discussions and networking to produce measurable outcomes for society.
The governor also commended sponsors, partners, government officials and invited guests from other states for supporting the initiative, noting that its impact extended beyond Lagos to national development.
First Lady of Lagos State and COWLSO Chairperson, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, urged participants to translate lessons from the conference into practical actions that would improve the lives of women, children and families.
“Let the knowledge gained influence the choices we make. Let the relationships we have established develop into meaningful partnerships.
“Let the lessons learned inspire us to become more deliberate in the development of our communities, and more committed to supporting those who need our help,
she noted.
While calling for the removal of barriers affecting vulnerable people, especially persons with disabilities, Dr. Sanwo-Olu noted that inclusion required more than financial assistance.
“We are the ones that are supposed to remove the barriers,” she said, urging participants to contribute their voices, knowledge and support to advancing the rights and protection of vulnerable groups.
She also also highlighted COWLSO’s interventions at the conference, including support for about 100 vulnerable people and older residents.
