Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday urged women to rise above all forms of discriminations and ‘weaker sex’ tag and truly play their role as change agents for national transformation.
Mr Ambode said this at the closing ceremony of the 2018 National Women’s Summit of Oyo State Officials’ Wives Association (OYSOWA) held at the University of Ibadan Conference Centre.
He added that it was important for Nigerian women to recognise that the world was changing and that they must use their influence to bring about positive change that would in turn cascade into every stratum of the society.
“The world is changing every day and women are now at the forefront of things. Women are now agents of change and are no longer referred to as the ‘weaker sex’
“So, they must never see themselves as oppressed or discriminated against. Every woman can be an agent of change. The society is built on a small unit called the family where the woman has great influence.
“From the family unit, every woman can initiate or spark change which can cascade upwards to every level and every sector of the nation. With focus, determination and perseverance, you can transform yourselves, your families, your communities and our country, against all odds,” Ambode said.
Describing the theme of the summit “Against All Odds” as apt, Ambode said it was important for women to appreciate the fact that it is possible for one to attain any goal despite challenges.
Ambode commended the convener of the summit and wife of Oyo State Governor Florence Ajimobi for her brilliant ideas.
In his remarks, Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi commended Ambode for bringing professionalism into governance.
He also commended women for standing by their husbands against all odds.