By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

Women in Ogun State, led by the Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, on Monday threw their weight behind the second term bid of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while also endorsing Governor Dapo Abiodun for the Ogun East Senatorial seat in 2027.

The endorsement came during a special programme organised by the Ogun State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development at the Ojude Oba Pavilion in Ijebu-Ode to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day.

Speaking at the event, Salako-Oyedele said Nigerian women, particularly in Ogun State, were satisfied with the performance of President Tinubu, citing what she described as “unprecedented commitment” to women empowerment.

“There is no denying the fact that President Tinubu has shown unprecedented commitment to empowering women,” she said. “We have therefore resolved to reward him with another term to consolidate on his achievements beyond 2027.”

She added that women in the state must take a more active role in politics as the 2027 general elections approach, stressing the need to increase female representation in governance.

“I know I’m speaking on behalf of the women gathered here today and indeed all women of Ogun State to express our strong and unflinching endorsement for the second term of His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he continues to drive the Renewed Hope Agenda,” she stated.

“And here in Ogun State, we stand firmly with our Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, in support of his continued leadership and future aspiration to represent Ogun East Senatorial District.”

Also speaking, the wife of the governor, Bamidele Abiodun, said the theme of this year’s celebration, “Give to Gain,” underscores the importance of collective effort in advancing women’s progress.

She noted that both the federal and state governments have continued to implement programmes aimed at improving the welfare of women.

“Women’s progress is tied to their ability to stand up for themselves and for one another,” she said. “This administration has been working to ensure that every woman—whether a trader or a professional—has access to health, education and equal opportunities.”

Highlighting federal interventions, she disclosed that over 1,200 women farmers in the South-West had received grants of ₦500,000 each to boost agricultural productivity.

“Through initiatives like ‘Every Home a Garden’ and educational bursaries for female students, resources are being placed directly in the hands of women,” she added.

In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, described this year’s International Women’s Day as significant, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the state’s creation.

She said women have remained central to the state’s development over the decades, contributing to family life, commerce, and governance.

Adeleye paid tribute to notable Nigerian women leaders, including Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Bola Kuforiji-Olubi, Alaba Lawson, Adenike Ebun Oyagbola, and Lucia Onabanjo, for paving the way for women in leadership.

“The theme ‘Give to Gain’ reminds us that meaningful progress comes from sacrifice, service and intentional investment in one another,” she said.

She, however, called for greater unity among women, urging them to support Tinubu’s re-election and Abiodun’s senatorial ambition.

The event drew prominent personalities, including former deputy governors, female political leaders, and women from across the state, all reiterating the need for sustained inclusion of women in governance.