Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, alongside other top dignitaries, has commended the First Lady of the State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, for her unwavering commitment to the empowerment of women and protection of children across the state.
Speaking during a special birthday celebration held in honour of Mrs. Abiodun at the Juvenile Correctional Centre in Asero, Abeokuta, Adeleye described the First Lady as a symbol of selfless service who has continued to support the present administration through policies and programmes that benefit women and children.
“Your Excellency, your life transcends ceremonial titles. You embody quiet strength, dignity and boundless compassion,” Adeleye said. “Through the Ajose Foundation and your collaboration with our Ministry, you’ve redefined advocacy—not as mere talk, but as a daily act of restoring hope and nurturing lives. Whether empowering women, educating the girl-child or promoting wellness, your impact is felt in real spaces by real people.”
The Commissioner also applauded Mrs. Abiodun’s decision to celebrate her birthday with children at the correctional centre, noting that such a gesture reflects her deep-rooted belief in uplifting the most vulnerable members of society.
Also present at the event were the Deputy Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Ajayi Bolanle, Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Dawodu, and the Special Adviser in the Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Lawal Olanbiwoninu. Others included the Permanent Secretary of the Hospital Management Board, Dr. Olayinka Elemide, among several other government functionaries.
They all spoke in unison, praising the First Lady for her consistent support to the current administration, particularly in matters affecting women, children and people with special needs. The dignitaries encouraged the children at the centre to remain hopeful and dream big, assuring them that the government remains committed to providing a safe and supportive environment.
In her response, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun thanked the guests for their kind words and commended the Ministry of Women Affairs for their continued efforts in promoting the values she holds dear. She reaffirmed her dedication to supporting policies that give greater voice and protection to women and children in Ogun State.
As part of the celebration, food items and various gifts were donated to the children at the correctional centre by the First Lady.