The Adedayo Oluwasanmi Foundation (AOF) has emphasized the need for greater investment in women as a pathway to sustainable development, urging government, corporate bodies, and individuals to accelerate efforts towards gender equality.
In a statement made available to Pressmen to mark the 2025 International Women’s Day in Ekiti holding on Tuesday, the founder of AOF, Pharmacist Adedayo Oluwasanmi, reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to women’s empowerment, noting that no society can thrive without the active participation of women in economic, political, and social development.
This year’s International Women’s Day was celebrated under the theme “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”, a theme that aligns with AOF’s mission of supporting women through healthcare initiatives, education, skill acquisition programs, and financial aid.
Oluwasanmi, described women as the backbone of communities, contributing significantly to education, business, healthcare, and leadership, yet facing systemic barriers such as economic hardship, gender-based violence, and limited access to opportunities.
“Investing in women is not just about fairness; it is about strategic progress. Studies have shown that when women are financially empowered, they reinvest in their families, improving health, education, and overall well-being,” he said.
Hei highlighted some of AOF’s key programs, including scholarships for girls, digital literacy initiatives, support for female entrepreneurs, and free medical interventions for women in rural communities. He called on both government and private sector players to increase investments in policies and programs that foster gender inclusion.
“We must do more. We must ensure that women-owned businesses thrive, that every girl has access to quality education, and that no woman is left behind due to cultural or financial limitations,” he added.
He also urged men to become allies in the movement for gender equality, emphasizing that empowered women create stronger societies.
“Women are the backbone of families and communities. As we raise our daughters, let us teach