Ijebu-Ode – More than 5,000 women in Ogun State have formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term and thrown their weight behind Governor Dapo Abiodun’s senatorial aspiration, using the occasion of the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) to call for greater female participation in politics.
The endorsement took place at the Royal Pavilion in Ijebu-Ode during an event organised by the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. It brought together female political office holders from all 20 local government areas of the state.
Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele declared the unflinching support of Ogun women for the President’s re-election, describing the Renewed Hope Agenda as impactful and inclusive, particularly for women.
“Policies of President Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun‑led administrations at the federal and state levels have significantly benefited women, with records of measurable gains in social inclusion, economic participation, and access to opportunities,” she said. “We are very proud of them and we pledge our unflinching support for them as they move on to the next level.”
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, said the massive turnout reflected the growing unity, resilience, and influence of women in public life. She noted that this year’s IWD celebration coincided with activities marking the 50th anniversary of Ogun State’s creation, calling the milestone a reminder of women’s consistent contributions to the state’s development over five decades.
“Women have remained central to Ogun’s development through family stability, commerce, community building, and increasing participation in governance and the private sector,” Adeleye said.
She attributed the achievements to deliberate leadership and inclusive policies at both federal and state levels, commending President Tinubu for economic reforms aimed at inclusive growth and Governor Abiodun for sustaining women‑focused initiatives under the ISEYA development agenda.
Acknowledging the contributions of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu through the Renewed Hope Initiative and the Ajose Foundation of the state’s First Lady, Bamidele Abiodun, the commissioner urged women to translate their numerical strength into effective political participation.
“The responsibility for a greater future rests not only on our shoulders but on our Permanent Voters’ Cards,” she added. “Women must remain united and support leaders who recognise their value and contribution to governance.”
In her remarks, the guest speaker, former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State and Senator Abiodun Olujimi, described the IWD theme, “Give to Gain,” as timely. She issued a clarion call for Nigeria to dismantle systemic barriers that keep women at the periphery of power, noting that the current two per cent female participation in politics represents a national crisis.
“International Women’s Day is not just a celebration but a moment for deep reflection on the structural reforms required to secure the future of the Nigerian girl‑child,” Olujimi said.
She urged women to identify, support, and stand by credible leaders, citing the inclusive governance style of President Tinubu and Governor Abiodun, while emphasising the need for women to support one another politically and socially.
The commissioner also announced the empowerment of 50 women with cash grants of ₦200,000 each, and 500 women with ₦50,000 each as part of the event.
