Women professionals in the water sector in Ogun State have been charged to rise to the challenges of leadership, innovation, and impactful service, as the government continues to provide clean, safe, and potable water for residents.
The Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, stated this during the launch of the ‘Women in Water’ initiative held in Abeokuta.
Onasanya, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Melutia Ogunremi, urged the women to fully embrace the initiative and ensure its success regardless of their professional background.
“All hands must be on deck. This is a collective responsibility, and every woman in the water sector must contribute meaningfully to the positive impact of this initiative,” he stated.
He stressed that water is critical to human survival, saying, “Whoever drinks water has life.”
Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Funmi Efuwape, described the launch as timely, aligning with global trends while emphasising sustainability, resilience, and inclusive governance beyond just infrastructure and supply.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, commended Damilola Otubanjo’s transformational leadership style within the Corporation, adding that it empowers women to be bold and lead meaningfully at every level.
“I have personally witnessed the remarkable shift from passive representation to active leadership since Hon. Otubanjo assumed office.
“This initiative empowers women to be bold and lead meaningfully at every level, be it in service delivery, fieldwork, or career advancement. It is a genuine call to action, supported by advocacy, engagement, and a strong system of support,” she said.
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Water Resources, Damilola Otubanjo, explained that the purpose of the initiative was to awaken a sense of purpose and responsibility among women in the sector.
Otubanjo clarified that ‘Women in Water’ was not created as a political platform, an association, or for the distribution of incentives, but as a space for empowerment, collaboration, and professional development.
Her words, “The ‘Women in Water’ initiative was designed to inspire, support, and mobilise women across all levels of the water value chain to drive change, uphold best practices, and ensure equitable water access in Ogun State.
“This initiative is not about palliatives or cash handouts. It’s about motivation, support, and helping women in the water sector work better, smarter, and together. It’s about having a leader who is accessible, ready to listen, and committed to your success.”
