The Ekiti Women In Management (EKWIM) known for empowering and strengthening female officers in the public service of the State, has called for increased attention to mental health and resilience among women in the civil service, describing these as critical for balancing societal expectations, career ambitions, and personal well-being.
The advocacy formed the crux of the 2024 EKWIW Public Lecture held at Lady Jibowu Hall, Ado Ekiti, on November 21, with the theme “Resilience for Economy and Workplace Stressors.” The event, which attracted women from various sectors, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), focused on practical solutions to workplace and societal pressures.
A clinical psychologist from Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Dr. Dotun Ajiboye, who was the Guest Speaker, stressed that mental health should not be treated as an afterthought, noting that it forms the foundation for resilience. He urged women to prioritize self-care, seek emotional support, and maintain healthy relationships.
“Resilience is not about avoiding stress but about managing it effectively. Women play pivotal roles in families, workplaces, and communities, but often neglect their mental health,” Ajiboye said.
The Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, highlighted the role of resilience in overcoming barriers to leadership. She called on women to leverage their strength and determination to break existing limitations and contribute to societal progress.
The state Commissioner for Women Affairs and EKWIM’s Lead Mentor Hon Peju Babafemi, lauded the group’s role in empowering women. She noted that the organization, which she initiated while serving as the State’s first female Head of Service, had equipped many women with skills for leadership and service delivery. She pledged continued government support for gender-focused programs.
The Ekiti State Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, while delivering her Keynote Address, challenged women to use resilience not just for personal growth but also for driving societal change. She stressed the importance of collaboration and urged women to support each other in breaking barriers.
“Resilience is key to creating a ripple effect of progress. Women must speak out, stand tall, and never compromise their worth,” Olomojobi said.
Princess Teju Okuyiga, a member of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Commissioner for education, Dr. Bimpe Aderiye, Mr Bayo Opeyemi, Barrister Bola and Mrs Bose Jegede and Princess Adetoun Agboola, special adviser to the Governor on social inclusion, also weighed in, stressing the necessity of self-care. They urged women to prioritize their health as a prerequisite for greater productivity and societal contributions.
EKWIM’s Coordinator, Dr. Oyeyemi Kayode-Ojo, who outlined the group’s achievements, including defending the rights of female officers, attending to civil servants in critical needs and mentoring younger officers, commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for prioritizing civil servants’ welfare, which she said was crucial for mental balance and workplace resilience.
The climax of the event was the induction of 12 new members, including Mesdames Dunni Korede Owa, Tola Famuyiwa, Oke Akudo among many others who were decorated by the State Head of Service Dr Folakemi Olomojobi and the DG Civic Orientation, Mrs Olawumi Famuyiwa
Participants described the event as enlightening and impactful, giving kudos to EKWIM’s commitment to mental health advocacy and pledged to implement the lessons learned in their professional and personal lives.
The lecture reinforced EKWIM’s resolve to empower women across Ekiticivil service, ensuring their contributions drive sustainable development in the State..