The Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, has called for sustained investment in women’s empowerment, describing it as key to Nigeria’s long-term development.
She made the call at an event marking the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration in Ado Ekiti, where she said supporting women would strengthen families, communities and the wider economy.
Addressing stakeholders at the well attended event , Dr Oyebanji said improving access to education, economic opportunities and social support for women would deliver broad national benefits.
“When we give women access to education, empowerment and holistic development, we gain stronger families, more prosperous communities and a more inclusive nation,” she said.
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She added that the administration of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji was prioritising women’s empowerment through policies focused on human capital development.
According to her, these include investments in girls’ education, economic opportunities for women and social protection programmes.
In her address, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Peju Babafemi, called for closer collaboration among government agencies, organisations and other stakeholders to advance gender equality.
She said more needed to be done to remove barriers affecting women in both public and private life.
The event also featured a lecture by Prof Kemi Ogundana of Ekiti State University, who said empowering women had a “multiplier effect” across society.
Several officials, including the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief( Mrs)Monisade Afuye and the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Bolaji Olagbaju, urged women to support ongoing efforts aimed at inclusive development.
The celebration was concluded with a dance competition, with Ado Local Government taking first place, followed by Ilejemeje and Ekiti East LGAs