In a remarkable celebration of International Women’s Day, the National Association of Seadogs’ Pyrates Confraternity, Ash Montana Deck, Abeokuta Chapter, joined forces with the Ogun State Government’s Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Development to honour the contributions of women on Thursday, March 27, 2025. The event took place at the renowned June 12 Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, and drew an enthusiastic crowd eager to recognize the achievements of women in the state.
The gathering was presided over by the Capoon, Mr Peter Oluwatoyin Adekunle, who led a distinguished delegation including notable figures such as Dr Sorunmu Olumide Afolabi, Mr Durodola Oludotun, Mr Arinze Emmanuel, Mr Ajani Oluwole, Mr Rotimi Babalola, Mr Oloyede Soji, Mr Yinka Rahman, Mr Okoya Kolawole, and Dr. Hafiz Babatunde Bello. Their collective presence underscored the significance of the occasion and the support for women’s empowerment within the community.
The event attracted a notable assembly of guests, including the Wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, and the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako Oyedele. Other prominent attendees included the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye; Mrs. Femi Ilori, the Ogun State Commissioner for Rural Development; the Deputy Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly; and various esteemed leaders such as Olori Matemilola, the Wife of the Olowu Owu Abeokuta, Dr. Elemide, Permanent Secretary of the Ogun Ministry of Health, and Hon. Funmi Efuape, the Ogun State Commissioner for Special Duties. The presence of Justice Adebisi O. Femi-Segun, President of the Customary Court of Appeal, and Alhaja Yemisi Abass, the Iyaloja General, enriched the event with dignified representation.
During his powerful goodwill address, the deck Capoon, Mr Peter Oluwatoyin Adekunle expressed gratitude and admiration for the strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication of women in the state. He said, “Today, we gather not just to celebrate, but to honor the vital role you play in shaping our communities. Your contributions to Ogun State’s growth and development are invaluable, and we are profoundly grateful for your tireless efforts.”
Highlighting the association’s commitment, he stated, “We reaffirm our dedication to empowering women and girls across Ogun State. We will relentlessly pursue initiatives that foster an inclusive and equitable society, where every woman has access to quality education, essential healthcare, economic opportunities, and a life free from violence and discrimination.”
He also took a moment to honour those women who are overcoming obstacles, challenging societal norms, and inspiring future generations through their remarkable achievements. “To all the women breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings, we salute you! Your determination and perseverance serve as a powerful beacon of hope for the future.”
Concluding his remarks, he encouraged continued support and unity among women, urging all to “uplift one another as we collectively strive for a brighter future for all. Happy International Women’s Day to all the incredible women in Ogun State!”
This celebration not only highlighted the accomplishments of women but also reinforced a collective commitment to advancing gender equality and inspiring future generations to continue the fight for a just and equitable society.
