By Dansu Peter The Badagry Women Development Forum (BWDF) marked the 9th edition of its annual International Women’s Day celebration with...
By Dansu Peter
Held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the Badagry Local Government Secretariat in Ajara, the event, themed "Accelerate Action," emphasized the importance of women’s active participation in leadership, governance, and societal development. Led by its Founder and Principal Coordinator, Hon. Sewede Pot-Balogun, BWDF reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women through advocacy and tangible acts of kindness.
The highlight of the event was the distribution of essential food items—including rice, garri, vegetable oil, and salt—to over 200 women, aimed at cushioning the economic challenges many are currently facing. Additionally, in a deeply moving moment, two physically challenged women received brand-new wheelchairs courtesy of the Blossom Foundation, a key partner of BWDF. The gesture was met with heartfelt gratitude, as attendees applauded the organization’s dedication to improving lives.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Sewede Pot-Balogun underscored the need for women to take decisive steps toward greater political and economic involvement. She encouraged unity among women, stressing that collective effort would lead to increased representation in decision-making spaces. "Women must rise and claim their rightful place in society. Our strength lies in our unity," she stated.
BWDF Chairperson, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Ogunyemi, reinforced the event’s theme, urging women to actively engage in leadership and mentorship. "If women stand their ground, we cannot be shoved aside," she asserted, lauding Hon. Pot-Balogun for her relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment.
The event also paid tribute to two influential figures—Hon. Bolatito Shobowale, late Chairman of Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA, and Late Pa Sunny Akinsanya Ajose, former Apex Leader in Badagry and Lagos GAC Member—both known for their advocacy for women's inclusion in governance. A moment of silence was observed in their honor.
Guest speakers, including Hon. Azeezat Damilola Owonla-Odubajo and Ambassador Motunrayo Mariam Williams-Johnson, tackled critical issues affecting women, from underrepresentation in leadership to combating domestic violence and fostering financial independence. They echoed the need for mentorship, with Hon. Owonla-Odubajo emphasizing that “nurturing the girl child today ensures a stronger future for women in leadership.”
In addition to the charitable distributions, the event facilitated networking opportunities for women interested in agriculture. Ambassador Nicky Maxwell, Head of IT at the All Women Farmers Association of Nigeria (AWFAN, Badagry Chapter), encouraged attendees to explore agribusiness as a viable means of financial empowerment.
Since its establishment in 2016, BWDF has remained a pillar of support for women in Badagry and beyond, providing platforms for education, business growth, and leadership development. Many beneficiaries at the event expressed gratitude for the forum’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of women.
The success of this year’s program was attributed to the support of notable dignitaries, including Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development; Hon. Abimbola Adeola Idowu, Commissioner, Lagos State Teaching Service Commission; Otunba Greg Bolaji Sonayon Towolawi; Hon. Sesi-Selan Pot-Balogun; Hon. Azeezat Damilola Owonla-Odunbajo; and Prince Ibrahim Ayeni.
Beyond the celebrations, the 9th edition of the Badagry International Women’s Day Program stood as a call to action—urging women to rise, take charge, and shape a future where they are not just participants, but key decision-makers.
Photo Credit: VoM
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