The President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barrister Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole, has praised Engr. Aderemi Oseni, the lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo State, for his remarkable representation.
Ajewole gave this commendation on Wednesday during the investiture and inauguration ceremony of the Oyo State Executives of the Southern Women Empowerment Forum (SWEF) in Ibadan.
He also lauded Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide, representing Ibadan Northwest/Southwest Federal Constituency, for his dedication.
“The two lawmakers are representing Ibadan very well,” the CCII president stated.
The CCII President commended the efforts of SWEF in driving initiatives that positively impact the lives of women in the southern region, expressing CCII’s willingness to collaborate with the group.
According to Ajewole, the CCII, the umbrella body for socio-cultural societies of Ibadan indigenes worldwide, is actively working on programs aimed at empowering individuals and reducing street idleness through productive engagements.
Alhaja Mutiat Adewolu Ladoja, wife of former Oyo State Governor and founder of Iderade Foundation, also addressed the gathering.
Represented by Mrs. Dolapo Dosumu, former Oyo State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Ladoja applauded SWEF’s initiators for championing causes traditionally associated with women’s roles.
She stressed that women are divinely gifted and urged them to harness these talents for societal good, especially in child-rearing and community development.
Ladoja called on women to prioritize moral upbringing, which has nothing to do with wealth or formal education in raising children, emphasizing that character-building at home leads to a stronger nation. She cautioned against the use of harmful language, encouraging women to nurture positive thinking in their children to fulfill their purpose in life.
Engr. Aderemi Oseni, represented by his Senior Legislative Aide, Alhaji Hakeem Okedina, reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the empowerment of women across Nigeria. He highlighted women’s pivotal role in national development and called for increased female participation in decision-making processes.
“Empowering women is not just a matter of justice, but it paves the way for sustainable growth,” he said, referencing several initiatives he has championed to enhance women’s access to education, business opportunities, and leadership positions.
Oseni emphasized that empowering women is essential to reducing poverty and fostering a more equitable society. He praised Nigerian women for their resilience and achievements despite facing significant challenges.
He urged all tiers of government to implement gender-responsive policies that address obstacles to women’s financial independence and access to resources.
“When women thrive, families, communities, and the nation thrive as well. It is our collective responsibility to ensure no woman is left behind,” he added.
To further support SWEF’s mission, Oseni made an immediate donation of two million naira (N2,000,000) and pledged to partner with the group to organise an empowerment programme for the state’s chapter.
In her address, Dr. Helen Taiwo Adebakin, President of SWEF, expressed that her vision for the forum was divinely inspired. She explained that SWEF seeks to build a more equitable and inclusive society, enabling women in the Southern region to overcome challenges and fulfill their aspirations, contributing to a brighter future for all.
Adebakin emphasized that her core mission is to spread joy and live in service to humanity.