Osoba tasks leadership on relevance of women in governance

The former Governor of Ogun State Chief Olusegun Osoba has tasked government at all levels on importance need to encourage the participation of more women in governance so that the ideals lived by the icons will not be in vain.

Penpushing reports that Osoba made the call on Tuesday at a summit tagged “Iyalolomo”, and initiative supporting women development held at marquee events centre Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta.

The chieftain of All Progressives Congress(APC) represented by Hon Kunle Adeyemi, however, commended President Tinubu-led Federal Government for the voices it keeps according women through appropriate representation in the scheme of governance.

“By the same token,we should enjoin our governments at the two sub-national levels to encourage the participation of more women in governance so that the ideals lived by the icons that we celebrate today can be further entrenched in the interest of humanity’, he emphasised

Penpushing further reports that the theme,”Iconic Motherhood’, is a narration of the roles of Efunroye Tinubu, Funmilayo Kuti and Bisoye Tejuoso which include panel discussions as well as comments and questions from the audience.

The former Governor stated that pointed out that both oral and documented history have,as a centre-point of conception,women who in procreation,remain,still,the the foundation of man’s existence.

“In other words,women are the seeds that give life to mankind because it takes women to harbour for months,the seed that develop into human existence either as man or woman. Therefore,women as a symbol of motherhood is that unique entity that gives meaning to the world itself. This is essentially why our elders say,’iya ni oloko ti o wa ni wa si aye’.

Penpushing also reports that Osoba emphasised that exceptional women litter the history of the modern world as Rosa Park in the United States,Winnie Mandela of South Africa, and the nobel Peace Laureate Malala Rousaflaz Pakistan who,all,among other notable global women leaders,continue to be referenced hence the centrality of the three iconic Egba woman-giants to the event of this very day.

“It,certainly,is an understatement that in our own social-cultural clime,the Industry,activism and entrepreneurship of these three frontline amazons remain points of reference as well as sources of inspiration and the audacity to dare – indeed,the roles of the triumvirate are the map which will continually guide girls and women in our quest for a more inclusive women leadership”, he added.

Penpushing reports that the veteran journalist pointed out that ,the celebration of the contributions of Iyalode Efunroye Tinubu,Mrs.Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti and Iyalode Tejuosho are still relevant till date

“As our role models and huge inspirations in trade, activism and rights determination as well as entrepreneurship and indusrty,the bold,fearless and courageous trio will remain the permanent illumination that is needed in further exploring the frontiers of progress and development”, Osoba stressed

“Indeed,the two genders must continue to learn from the valour and exploits of the three women-titans in our small corner as we hoist,still,their banners before the entire world as the vanguard of woman-audacity,strength and freedom so that the generation unborn can be made to drink from their valour”.

“As a worthy signpost,the generation of unborn girls/women must be able to garner strength in moments of discouragement through the lessons in the exploits of the visionary leadership of the triumvirate”.

“I am very much pleased to be here on this historic occasion that seeks to re-ignite and further establish the burning fires of the three heroines of our history.I express gratitude to the initiator and the ‘brains-behind’ the event of today”, he added.

“We should all be glad that history will be kind to everyone that is here today to revisit the hugely exceptional standings of the trio-amazons in furtherance of the expansion of the frontiers of womanhood and the betterment of the generally of humanity”, Osoba said

Penpushing further reports that the convener of the summit Prof Yemi Oke earlier in his welcome speech said the event was dedicated to recognize celebrate, appreciate and immortalised the three extraordinary Egba women whose lives and legacies transcend time and continue to inspire generations.

“Our gathering today is not merely a ceremony, but a testament to the power of womanhood and the indelible impact that those determined, courageous, and visionary women have had—and continue to have—on our nation’s social, economic, and political landscapes”, Oke stated.

“We are here to honour: Iyalode Efunroye Tinubu, a formidable Yoruba aristocrat and merchant whose entrepreneurial prowess and political influence shaped the commercial and political terrain of the pre- and post-colonial Nigeria. Her legacy challenges us to think critically about the role of women in economic development and governance”, he explained.

“Madam Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a fearless activist, educationist, and pioneering champion for women’s rights. Her indefatigable spirit reminds us of the importance of advocating for justice, equity, and the empowerment of the marginalized.

‘Iyalode Bisoye Tejuoso, a visionary businesswoman, industrialist, and princess merchant whose contributions to commerce and industry underscore the vital role women have played—and continue to play—in shaping our national economy lives and fostering social transformation”, Oke added.

“In honouring these heroines, Iyalolomo aims to bridge the past with the present by facilitating robust intellectual engagements, including a lead-paper presentation and panel discussions that will interrogate and celebrate the lives and times of these phenomenal women and stimulate appropriate levels of recognition for the crucial roles that Women okay and have continued to play in our national lives and socio-political engagement”, he stated.

“It is our belief that this intellectual exchange will not only preserve their legacies but also inspire a new generation of women leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, and activists”.

“May this event not only pay tribute to our heroines but also serve as a clarion call to all of us—men and women alike—to continue the work of building a society where the contributions of women are recognised, celebrated, and adequately rewarded”, Oke added

Penpushing reports that tmember of board of trustees Hon. Kayode Oladele unveiling the Iyalolomo foundation explained that it is a non-governmental, non-political, and non-profit socio-cultural national initiative dedicated to celebrating womanhood and empowering Nigerian women to achieve their fullest potential.

“Our vision is rooted in recognizing, honoring, and amplifying the voices, experiences, and achievements of women—particularly mothers—both throughout history and in contemporary society. We are committed to:educating the world about the invaluable contributions of women across all sectors, especially in politics and leadership.Challenging and reshaping narratives that have historically rendered women less visible or undervalued’, he stated.

Penpushing further reports that the Federal Commissioner,Federal Character Commission added that other include inspiring future generations through curated exhibits, impactful events, a vibrant resource center, scholarship programs, and strategic educational partnerships,promoting women’s equality and development through education and training, honoring women’s achievements and courage through artistic works and cultural content, empowering women for national development and integration, protecting, preserving and safeguarding the health of women and children,highlighting the significance of a child’s maternal lineage by promoting maternal lineage recognition and repositioning.

“At Iyalomo, we believe that empowering women means empowering communities, and ultimately, shaping a more inclusive and equitable society. We also challenge limiting narratives and ideologies about women by amplifying individual stories, empowering women’s voices, and combating isolation through creative and inclusive advocacy programs”, Oladele said.

“We believe that through these lens, women will claim their rightful place in our collective cultural and political narratives and strengthening the society as a whole. In pursuit of our vision, our maiden program today will highlight the importance and significant contributions of women in our society, particularly in the socioeconomic and political emancipation of Egbaland”, he added.

“We will also posthumously honour three great Egba women of national and international repute. In addition to this posthumous honour, the event will offer a deep dive into their lives through a lead-paper presentation and panel discussions”.

“The women we are honouring today are: Iyalode Efunroye Tinubu, a powerful Yoruba aristocrat and merchant who shaped both pre- and post-colonial Nigeria; Madam Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a renowned women’s rights activist and educationist during British colonial Nigeria; and Iyalode Bisoye Tejuoso (née Karounwi), a businesswoman, industrialist, and princess merchant of the late 20th century, representing both Lagos and Abeokuta. These remarkable women have been selected to pioneer this recognition agenda for Nigerian women.

Penpushing also reports that Prof Tope Popoola moderated the summit while panelists include Prof Oluyemisi Adebowale, Dr(Mrs) Seunfunmi Olutayo, Prof Ayo Yusuf and Dr Moses Yakubu

FOOTNOTE: You want to share story with us? You want to advertise with us? You need publicity for product, or service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348073463653 or email penpushing@yahoo.com