Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu will be remembered in history not only for spearheading impactful initiatives and campaigns that empowered women but also as a dedicated advocate for creating a safer and more just society, especially for the often-neglected boy child. Through her multifaceted initiatives addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, the War Against Drug Abuse, and The Boy Child Initiative, we have seen that the First Lady and experienced medical doctor’s work and commitment transcend mere advocacy but serve as a tool for long-lasting transformative societal change.
Over the past four years, Dr. Sanwo-Olu’s earnest contributions have improved the tackling Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Advocacy in Lagos State. Beyond leveraging various media platforms strategically to disseminate information on recognizing, preventing, and reporting violence, she has championed the establishment and support of safe havens for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. Collaborating with healthcare facilities and relevant organizations, both locally and internationally, she ensures survivors access comprehensive medical care, counseling services, and legal support while simultaneously driving efforts to destigmatize their experiences within society.
In the ongoing war against drug abuse in Nigeria, the Lagos First Lady doesn’t stand as a mere spectator; she actively engages in rehabilitation programs, offering support to existing facilities and collaborating with rehabilitation centers to bolster their capacity. Her solution-oriented approach aims to provide individuals grappling with drug abuse access to high-quality treatment and comprehensive support. The establishment of new centers emerges as a crucial facet of her advocacy, addressing the escalating demand for addiction treatment services. This initiative not only reinforces existing facilities but also advocates for the creation of additional rehabilitation centers.
Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu further amplifies her impact by promoting educational campaigns to raise awareness about the perils of drug abuse, emphasizing its repercussions on individuals and communities. Her endeavors extend to organizing workshops and seminars in schools, communities, and workplaces, enlightening people about the signs of drug abuse, prevention strategies, and available support services.
In conjunction with law enforcement agencies, the First Lady aims to combat the illegal drug trade and reduce the availability of illicit substances. She collaborates with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) specializing in drug rehabilitation and prevention, offering them financial support, resources, and increased visibility. Facilitating partnerships between the public and private sectors is a crucial step in creating comprehensive and sustainable solutions to tackle drug abuse, particularly in less privileged communities.
Beyond these efforts, the First Lady champions the Lagos Boy Child Initiative (LBCI), a project instrumental in instilling positive morals in boys.. This hands-on project is driven by practical solutions. Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu actively engages with the initiative, encouraging a shift in societal mindset and emphasizing that responsible and well-brought-up girls must be complemented by equally responsible and well-brought-up boys. By also enlightening parents on effective behavioral management strategies, she aims to foster an environment where the boy child can thrive, realizing his full potential and contributing positively to society.
Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu’s endeavors, spanning advocacy against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, the War Against Drug Abuse, and The Boy Child Initiative, not only showcase her dedication to gender equality but also underscore her profound understanding of the pivotal role that leaders must assume in shaping the future of families and, by extension, society at large.
