The Oyo State Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) Women’s Wing recently marked International Women’s Day with a powerful call for gender equality and women’s empowerment.
The event, themed “Gender Equality: A Catalyst for Development,” featured a public lecture and cultural dance at the House of Chiefs, Parliament Building, Secretariat, Ibadan.
The wife of the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mrs. Olamidun Ogundoyin urged women to unite in the pursuit of equal rights, opportunities, and freedom.
Mrs. Ogundoyin, who was represented at the event by the wife of the House Deputy Majority Leader, Mrs. Yewande Babalola emphasized that gender equality is not solely a women’s issue, but a collective effort to break down stereotypes and create a brighter future.
“The theme of today’s event spelt out the importance that gender equality is not just a woman’s issue, I urge us to join hands to address challenges and stereotypes, and work together towards a brighter and more inclusive future.”
Clerk of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mrs. Taiwo Muraina-Akinola echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of gender, in contributing to Nigeria’s development
“Let the message we take from this celebration resonate across every home, office, and institution, excellence is not gender-based. It is achieved by those who commit to personal growth, lifelong learning, discipline, and purpose. Gender equality must not be reduced to a chant ; it must be lived, practiced, and seen in the merit-based empowerment of every deserving woman.”
The Guest Lecturer at the celebration, Barr. Toritseju Ikime, who was a former executive member of the International Federation of Women’s Lawyers, Oyo State, urged members of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria to sensitize the public especially women on gender equality.
While appreciating Governor Seyi Makinde and other women who played vital role in the implementation of the six months maternity leave, Barr Ikime implored women to train and instill in their male children, discipline and moral characters that will enable them to see women as partners in progress rather than subordinates.
Comrade Ramat Azeez, Women Leader of PASAN, Oyo State, identified key areas requiring attention, including Education, Economic Empowerment, Politics and the Health Sector.
Those who delivered goodwill messages at the event were the Chairman, House of Assembly Commission, Hon. Julius Okedoyin, former NLC and NUT Chairman, Comrade Ibrahim Bolomope and Chairman, PASAN, Oyo State, Comrade Olayemi Alade.
The event was attended by wives of the honourable members and management of the Oyo State House of Assembly.
The event concluded with a call to action, urging attendees to work together towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
