Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has commended the role of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials, COWLSO, in women empowerment, as the committee celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Sanwo-Olu described the committee as a symbol of compassion, continuity and transformative leadership in women empowerment.
The governor made the commendation at the opening of a three-day national women’s conference organised by COWLSO yesterday in Lagos.
The conference had as theme, ’25 Years of Visionary Leadership: Inspiring the Next Generation.’
Sanwo-Olu said COWLSO had evolved from a modest initiative into a dynamic platform of change, inspiring women to become innovators, changemakers and community leaders.
He said the committee had continued to demonstrate the values of compassion, collaboration and continuity.
He added that it had grown into a rallying point for women, who believed leadership was not about holding titles, but transforming lives.
“25 years ago, a simple but powerful idea was born — to serve, to uplift and to make a difference.
“Today, we gather not just to celebrate, but to honour women whose vision, strength and service have defined our humanity.
“COWLSO’s story is one of grace, determination and generational impact.
“The legacy it has built reminds us that true leadership lies not in how many followers you have, but in how many leaders you raise,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He commended his wife, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for devotion to family well-being and empowerment programmes that continued to touch lives across the state.
In a virtual goodwill message, the first lady, SenatorvOluremi Tinubu praised COWLSO for contributions to nation-building, and urged women to uphold the values of selflessness and service.
Tinubu, who rescucitated the conference during her tenure as the Wife of Lagos State Governor, described COWLSO as an enduring model of women’s collaboration.
According to her, its 25-year journey shows what women can achieve when united by purpose.
“COWLSO remains a beacon of hope and an example of what women can do together. It has inspired generations to rise, lead and give back to society.
“I commend all members for sustaining the vision, and urge you to continue empowering others,” she said.
In her remarks, Sanwo-Olu’s wife and chairperson of COWLSO, expressed appreciation to past wives of Lagos State governors, COWLSO partners, and other women, who had contributed to the growth of COWLSO’s growth.
She said the anniversary was not just a celebration of longevity, but a reaffirmation of purpose to build a Lagos and Nigeria where every woman could dream freely, lead boldly and thrive fully.
“As we reflect on the past 25 years, we renew our commitment to nurturing families, empowering women, and promoting values that strengthen our society,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The conference brought together wives of governors, women leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs from across Nigeria and beyond to chart new pathways for inclusive growth and leadership development.
Wives of the governors of Ogun, Osun and Nassarawa states, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, Mrs Titi Adeleke, and Hajia Silifat Sule, respectively, were at the event.
