Stakeholders drawn from government, business, media, civil society and development organisations have called for greater inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making positions, stressing that gender advocacy must move beyond conversations to tangible outcomes.
The call was made at the third edition of Eve’s Lounge, a women-focused leadership and advocacy platform held in Ibadan, Oyo State, under the theme: “The Liberated Woman: Power, Voice and Choices.”
The event, convened by broadcast journalist and media entrepreneur, Damilola Amoo, brought together policymakers, elected officials, corporate leaders, development practitioners and gender advocates to examine pathways for advancing women’s participation in governance, leadership and socio-economic development.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour, Adewole Adebayo said no society could attain sustainable development without investing in the welfare, rights and empowerment of women.
According to him, the progress and stability of communities are closely linked to the well-being of women, adding that promoting gender inclusion is both a moral imperative and a practical necessity for national development.
Also speaking, Tolulope Akande-Sadipe challenged societal structures that continue to limit women’s participation in politics and governance.
She questioned the extent to which discussions on gender inclusion had translated into increased female representation in elective offices.
“How many women will be in the House of Representatives and Senate in 2027? We must ensure that these conversations produce measurable results,” she said.
Akande-Sadipe maintained that leadership and public service should be based on competence rather than gender, stressing that women possess equal capacity to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The Head of Good Governance at the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria Commission, Omolara Ejiade, described a liberated woman as one who possesses agency over her voice, body and decisions.
“A liberated woman is one who can make informed choices, exercise her rights and participate fully in society without fear or restriction,” she said.
Representing the Chairperson of the Oyo State House of Assembly Committee on Women Affairs and Community Development, Hon. Yetunde Tinuola Adeoye said education, confidence and the ability to create solutions were essential attributes of a liberated woman.
Delivering goodwill remarks, Adeolu Gboyega cautioned against misconceptions surrounding women’s liberation, noting that empowerment should not be equated with rivalry between men and women.
According to him, a truly liberated woman is one who understands her worth, maximises her potential and contributes positively to society.
The Head of Station, Crest 91.1FM, Ibadan, Olaide Abioye urged women to uphold integrity and self-worth, describing these values as critical to personal and professional success.
During a panel session, entrepreneur Kemi Irinoye emphasised the importance of value-driven leadership, integrity and intentional personal development.
She noted that liberated women are those who understand their strengths, make informed decisions and actively shape their future rather than remaining passive observers.
Veteran broadcaster Anikeade Funke-Treasure described liberation as recognising and deploying one’s talents for societal advancement.
She encouraged women to embrace opportunities and remain confident in their abilities, regardless of prevailing circumstances.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of AKModel Group, Dr. Akeem Odegade, commended the organisers for creating a platform that promotes leadership, inclusion and social impact.
Speaking on the vision behind the initiative, Amoo said a liberated woman is one whose voice is heard, whose choices are respected and whose opportunities are not constrained by discrimination.
She expressed optimism about the growing influence of women in politics and public life, noting that sustained advocacy remained necessary to achieve meaningful representation.
“We are seeing more women becoming involved in governance and policymaking. The goal is to ensure that women are not only present but are positioned to influence decisions and implement policies that impact society,” she said.
The event also featured participants from the Deaf Women Association in Oyo State and Hope Soars Foundation for Widows, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity.
Supported by organisations including AKModel Group, Golden Penny Foods and African Women in Media, the programme attracted a diverse audience comprising government officials, entrepreneurs, development practitioners, students, media professionals and community leaders.
Originally launched as a radio programme on Crest 91.1FM, Eve’s Lounge has evolved into an annual platform dedicated to advancing conversations on leadership, governance, gender equity and social transformation.
