By Yemi Olajutemu
Ado Ekiti
The 2024 public lecture organized by Ekiti Women in Management (EKWIW) turned the spotlight on mental health and resilience, with experts and leaders, addressing the often-overlooked challenges faced by women in balancing societal expectations, career ambitions, and personal well-being.
Held on Thursday 21st of November at the Lady Jibowu Hall Government in Ado Ekiti, the lecture, titled “Resilience for Economy and Workplace Stressors,” brought together women from various sectors, Ministries, Departments and Agencies to explore practical solutions for achieving a good mental balance in the contemporary demanding world.
A clinical psychologist at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Dr. Dotun Ajiboye, who delivered the keynote address, called attention to the toll societal and workplace pressures can take on women’s mental health.
According to him, “women play pivotal roles in families, workplaces, and communities, but the strain of these responsibilities often leaves little room for self-care, mental health should not be an afterthought—it is the foundation for resilience and overall well-being.”
Ajiboye described resilience as a skill that could be cultivated and shared practical tips, including prioritizing self-care, seeking emotional support, and enhancing healthy relationships.
“Resilience is not about avoiding stress but developing the tools to manage it effectively,” he said.
Sharing her perspective, the Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, added a political dimension to the conversation, urging women to leverage their resilience to break barriers in leadership.
“We cannot ignore the strength and determination of women. This platform is a testament to the boundless potentiality of women when given opportunities to thrive,” Adubiaro remarked.
Also the Commissioner for Women Affairs and EKWIW Lead Mentor, Dr. Peju Babafemi, whose initiative during her tenure as the first female head of service of the state, birthed the organization, described EKWIM as a driving force for empowering women in management, lauding the leadership of EKWIM their focus and resilience in bringing forth the positive energies of women to bear in the efficient service delivery and development of the state. Babafemi explained that the State Government would continue its support for gender-focused programs.
“EKWIW has made significant strides in equipping women with the skills and confidence to excel in leadership roles. We must build on this momentum,” Babafemi stated.
Laying emphasis on the importance of self-advocacy and collaboration in her keynote address, the Ekiti State Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, challenged women to build resilience not just for their personal growth but to influence positive societal change.
“When women unite and support each other, we create a ripple effect that drives progress in every sphere of life. Speak out, stand tall, and never compromise your worth,” Olomojobi said.
The event also featured critical contributions from members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Princess Teju Okuyiga and members of the state executive council including the state Commissioner for education Dr Adebimpe Aderiye and Princess Adetoun Agboola highlighting the important role of self-care in maintaining productivity and well-being.
“Women often forget to care for themselves while juggling multiple responsibilities. But self-care is not selfish; it’s a necessity,” Agboola remarked while Okuyiga said that “By prioritizing their mental and physical health, women can better contribute to society and inspire others to do the same.”
The state Commissioner for Education, Dr. Bimpe Aderiye, who spoke on the broader societal impact of women’s contribution encouraged participants to continue striving for excellence despite the various challenges.
“The resilience of women has always been a cornerstone of development in our society. Let’s keep pushing boundaries and setting new standards,” she said.
The Coordinator of Ekiti State Women Management (EKWIM) and Permanent Secretary, Cabinet and Special Services, Dr. Oyeyemi Kayode Ojo, listed the various roles achievements of the organization while urging participants to remain committed to their goals.
“Equipping members to constructively use their potentials to impact younger female officers and prepare them for leadership;
Spread tentacles of support to Ekiti workforce, particularly those in the lower level; Rise to defend the course of female officers and to prove the worth of women;
Offer assistance for the career progression, health and wellness of female officers; Reaching out to the younger generation in the secondary schools through school outreaches. Networking to assist female officers who have challenges on domestic violence, sexual assault, ill-health, legal matters, career issues, human right etc are the goals of EKWIM” Said Dr Oyeyemi Kayode-Ojo.S
She commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for prioritizing the welfare of civil servants, which she described as a crucial factor in facilitating workplace resilience.
Participants at the event shared their experiences, describing the lecture as both enlightening and empowering, noting that the discussions reinforced the importance of intentional self-care and building resilience in the face of adversity.
Dr Olabisi Ogunmodede, Mrs Dunni Ayeni , Mrs Bukola Ezieke, Kemi Olushola, Mrs Tola Famuyiwa and Mrs Doyin Ayeni among others who spoke in different interviews, said that the program reminded them that resilience is not about perfection but about learning to navigate challenges while staying true to oneself.