By Emmanuel Oluwadola

Women in Ondo State have been charged to exemplify good character in society while taking top positions and responsibilities.

This was the submission of women at a leadership training programme organised by Standup For Women Society (SWS), Southwest Zone in Oba-Ile, Akure.

The Olowa of Igbara-Oke, Oba Dr Francis Adefarakanmi Agbede was decorated as the Patron and his wife, Olori Eyesorun Tinuade as the Matron of SWS in the State.

The Oba pledged his support for SWS, assuring to always protect the image of women in the state and beyond.

Reacting, Olori Eyesorun Tinuade noted that women cannot be underrated because they determine the fate of the society owing to their virtues.

She advised women to exhibit good character in the society, stressing that good women make a good society.

“Our character as women is very important everywhere we find ourselves, even in our homes. Let us be good women in the society who show mercy and can persevere. Let us support ourselves and make positive change everywhere,” Olori charged.

Delivering a lecture on “Leadership”, Special Adviser A on Gender to Ondo State Governor, Mrs Olamide Falana emphasised that leaders are not only born but made, adding that women have the right to be leaders. 

Falana highlighted that amidst types of leaders in society, women should always stand as transformational leaders. She advised women to avoid competition in politics but ensure their input is seen. 

“Women leaders are not by mouth but with strong support, and resources to become social liberators. Women are first women before all other attainments, they must be adequately represented.

“Women can develop leadership skills by accepting responsibility, constant learning, motivating other women to action, adapting to change, showing empathy and being bold in the face of challenges,” Falana highlighted.

The SWS International President, Deborah Abosede Ijadele-Adetona charged women to place value on themselves as women because women’s voice and impact must be felt.

She noted that SWS will always fight for the course of all, without being gender biased, stressing that Ondo State will not lag behind women leadership.

The Southwest Vice President, Mrs Ibidunni Kolawole expressed her gratitude to God stressing the event wouldn’t have been successful without their support.