Women applaud Tinubu for advancing gender inclusivity

Nigerian women have praised President Bola Tinubu for demonstrating his commitment to gender inclusivity by approving the appointment of Ms Folashade Adekaiyaoja as the first female Deputy Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS).

This was stated in a press release signed by Mr Jonathan Eze, Special Assistant to the Minister of Women Affairs, after a delegation of women from various organisations paid a courtesy visit to Adekaiyaoja in Abuja on Friday.

Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, who led the delegation, described Adekaiyaoja’s appointment as a reflection of the president’s dedication to promoting women in leadership.

She noted that he has consistently demonstrated his support for women through strategic appointments and policies that encourage gender balance.

The minister also commended the DSS Director General for prioritising staff welfare and ensuring equal opportunities for both men and women within the agency.

“It takes a visionary leader to uplift women, and President Bola Tinubu has exemplified this by continuously promoting and supporting women in leadership.

“His administration has demonstrated strong political will, including a significant budgetary increase of over 1,000 per cent for the Ministry of Women Affairs and 500 per cent for the NCWD.

“These actions reaffirm his commitment to gender inclusivity,” she said.

She further praised the DSS D-G for fostering a supportive environment for women, ensuring their protection, and assisting the families of retired and fallen officers.

She acknowledged his sponsorship of training programmes for women at the NCWD as part of his efforts to empower female professionals.

In response, DSS Director General Oluwatosin Ajayi attributed his strong stance on gender equality to the influence of his mother, stating that his upbringing instilled in him a deep appreciation for women.

“Everywhere I have served, I have upheld zero tolerance for the abuse of women. Leadership is infectious, and I ensure that those who work with me uphold the same values,” he said.

Members of the delegation included representatives from the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) and the Federation of Muslim Women Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN).

Others present were representatives from the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and the Association of Women in Trade and Agriculture (AWITA).