International Women’s Day: Labour Leaders, Govt Seek Greater Role for Women in Governance

…Calls for increased political participation ahead of 2027 elections

…As Experts stress women’s role in economic growth, development

The International Women’s Day celebration in Oyo State brought together key stakeholders, labour leaders, and advocates who emphasized the urgent need for greater inclusion, empowerment, and representation of women in governance and society.

The event, organized by the women wings of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress in Oyo State, highlighted the 2025 theme: “Right, Justice, Empowerment and Inclusion for Women and Girls, Give to Gain.

”Delivering his remarks, the Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Musibau Babatunde, stressed the critical role women play in economic growth and sustainable development.

He noted that empowering women through education, economic support, and digital training is essential for building a more inclusive society.

Babatunde pointed to progress in the state, including the appointment of women into leadership roles such as the Head of Service and commissioners, but maintained that more needs to be done to integrate women fully into governance.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Kayode Martin, expressed concern that women are still struggling for inclusion in leadership despite their proven capabilities.

He encouraged women to step forward confidently and showcase their abilities, assuring them of continued support from labour unions.

The Guest lecturer and former zonal director of Radio Nigeria, Bolatito Joseph, while delivering her lecture, she emphasized the importance of women occupying decision-making positions noting that women are underrepresented in Nigeria’s legislative bodies and called for increased political participation, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Similarly, the Oyo State Head of Service, Olubunmi Oni, urged both government and private sector stakeholders to sustain policies that promote women’s welfare.

She highlighted ongoing challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, and called for collective action to address them.

Earlier in a joint welcome address, labour leaders Comrade Sotuminu Funmilayo and Comrade Bolanle Lawal described the celebration as a platform to reflect on progress and confront persistent gender inequalities.

They called for stronger policies to tackle gender-based violence, economic exclusion, and underrepresentation in governance.

The event concluded with a unified call for deliberate efforts to empower women, promote equality, and ensure their active participation in shaping the future of society.