Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said sustainable development cannot be achieved without the full inclusion of women, warning that excluding them from opportunities, safety and decision-making undermines economic growth.

Sanwo-Olu made the remarks at the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration held at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, where he aligned the state with the global theme, “Rights. Justice. Action for All Women and Girls,” according to a statement issued on Thursday.

He said the theme calls for accountability and requires governments to move beyond rhetoric by delivering measurable outcomes, stressing that gender inclusion remains central to his administration’s development agenda.

“Sustainable growth cannot occur where half the population is denied opportunity, safety, or voice,” the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu added that women’s rights in Lagos are treated as legal obligations rather than aspirations, emphasising that governance must be rooted in inclusion, justice and sustained action.

He reiterated the state’s zero-tolerance policy on gender-based violence and discrimination, noting ongoing efforts to strengthen legal and institutional frameworks to protect women and girls.

The governor said the state would continue to invest in survivor support systems, enforcement mechanisms and social protection structures, describing such interventions as strategic economic decisions rather than charity.

“When we give women economic opportunity, we gain inclusive growth. When we give girls the right environment to thrive, we gain innovation and long-term development,” he said, referencing the state’s “Give to Gain” campaign as a governance approach focused on measurable outcomes.

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, said the event reinforced Lagos State’s commitment to inclusive governance, describing women’s rights as fundamental and non-negotiable.

She noted that the state has strengthened response systems to address domestic and sexual violence, while expanding programmes in skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and digital empowerment to enhance women’s economic independence.

“A woman without income is more vulnerable to abuse, exclusion, and dependency,” she said, adding that poverty alleviation remains a key strategy.

Guest speaker Atinuke Oluyemi also stressed the need to protect women’s rights and translate advocacy into tangible impact, urging stakeholders to address issues affecting women and girls through practical action.

The event highlighted Lagos State’s continued focus on promoting inclusion and advancing policies aimed at achieving sustainable social and economic development.