The Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) has unveiled plans for massive investments to boost education across the State, especially in the rural areas and underserved communities.
COWLSO Chairman and First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, spoke about the plan at a press conference held in Lagos House, Alausa – Ikeja, to announce activities lined up for the 21st National Women’s Conference of the Committee, which is scheduled to hold between 26th and 28th October 2021, at The Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Point News reports that the First Lady addressed media alongside top COWLSO officials and members of the Conference Planning Committee, stating that proceeds of the conference would be channelled towards school projects and procuring equipment for students in rural areas and children with special needs.
In her words: “This year, by the grace of God, COWLSO will be going on the educational route. All proceeds from this conference will be channelled towards things that will help our children. In conjunction with the Ministry of Education, we will partner to have a school project, and not only that, we will ensure that our children have the best equipment to learn.”
She went on to state:
“We will also be looking at ensuring that children with special needs have the necessary equipment to learn. Education is the bedrock of society and it is very important that we catch them young. And so, that is one of the reasons we don’t joke with the National Women’s Conference. It has been on for the past 20 years and this year, we are having the 21st edition.”
Disclosing that all is set for the hybrid conference with the theme “Awake!”, the First Lady explained that the 3000-capacity venue will have only 1,000 physical attendees due to the new realities of COVID-19 while about 6,000 persons will join virtually.
While noting that this year’s theme – “Awake” – was designed to bring women in tune with modern realities, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu said the conference would equip participants with skills and expertise to make a positive difference and proffer solutions to the myriad of challenges confronting Lagos State and Nigeria.
Her words: “The theme of the Conference and Sub-themes will be examined by subject-matter experts, who are seasoned and accomplished professionals in various spheres of life. They have been carefully selected to thoroughly dissect the topics.”
Outlining some activities slated for the event, the First Lady disclosed that women who have made a positive impact would be honoured as inspirational women of the year, while the maiden inspirational youths of the year category will be introduced this year.
She also announced that there will be COWLSO Virtual and Physical Markets for participants to visit and buy various items at greatly reduced prices from the accredited vendors, just as free legal clinics and medical care would be available.
On other activities, Sanwo-Olu said: “This year, our Gala Night will return and it promises to be a bumper package mixed with a potpourri of entertainment and raffle draws that will bring about exciting prizes for lucky participants.
“As part of the pre-Conference preparations, last week, we had a fellowship and prayer service both at the Chapel and Mosque in Lagos House, Ikeja. On Saturday, 16th October 2021, we shall embark on an Awareness Walk, with the theme: “Awake! Stop the Violence!”
Disclosing that Nigeria’s First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Aisha Muhammadu Buhari is scheduled to declare the conference open, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu added that Ondo State Governor, Arakunri Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, will be the Special Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony while Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, is slated as Special Guest of Honour at the closing ceremony.
Also speaking, Deputy COWLSO Chairman and wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, commended the quality of vision and leadership provided by the Fi