The Ekiti State Women in Management (EKWIM) has called for accelerated actions towards gender equality and the inclusion of women in leadership, education, and economic opportunities, as the state marked the 2025 International Women’s Day in Ado-Ekiti.
According to a statement made available to journalists in Ado Ekiti, entitled “Accelerate Action: Women’s Inclusion for a Sustainable Future in Ekiti State” the Coordinator of EKWIM, Dr. Oyeyemi Kayode-Ojo, stressed the need for concrete steps to dismantle societal barriers that hinder women’s progress.
According to her, women’s contributions across various sectors remain undeniable, yet many still face discrimination, unequal opportunities, and cultural limitations that silence their voices. She noted that achieving true development requires ensuring that no woman, girl, or person with special abilities is left behind.
“Women have always been at the heart of progress, from the boardrooms to the classrooms, from the farms to the laboratories, from our homes to the global stage,” she said. “Yet, despite these contributions, women continue to face systemic challenges. This must change. We must accelerate action.”
EKWIM, she added, remains committed to advocacy, mentorship, and policy engagement in collaboration with government agencies, civil society, and local communities to foster women’s inclusion in all spheres of society.
Dr. Kayode-Ojo highlighted EKWIM’s recent outreach at the Government Special School for the Blind in Ikere, where the organization emphasized the importance of disability inclusion. She stated that the group encouraged young women with special abilities to embrace their potential and not be defined by limitations.
“Your gender should never limit your dreams. We must demand policies that protect and promote women’s rights, challenge harmful stereotypes, ensure access to quality education for girls, and create a workplace environment where women can rise to leadership without fear of bias.” she remarked.
The EKWIM Coordinator commended the Ekiti State Government, led by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, for efforts in promoting women’s participation in governance, economic empowerment, and social inclusion. She also lauded the First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, for her commitment to equipping present and future generations of Ekiti women with the necessary resources to thrive.
However, she stressed that while progress has been made, more work remains to be done. She urged both men and women to work together towards gender equality, emphasizing that gender inclusion is not just a women’s issue, but a societal imperative.
“As we celebrate today, let us remember that each of us has a role to play,” she said. “Whether as mothers, professionals, teachers, business owners, policymakers, or students, we must take intentional steps towards inclusivity. We must lift as we climb, support our fellow women, and create spaces where every woman, regardless of her background, can flourish.” She said.