Politics

Speaker Meranda thanks colleagues, says they made the right decision

Published

1 year ago

February 9, 2025

Speaker Meranda thanks colleagues, says they made the right decision

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, has once again expressed her gratitude to her colleagues for electing her to lead the prestigious Assembly.

She conveyed her appreciation during a courtesy visit by WOMANIFESTO, a platform advocating for women’s rights in Nigeria, to the House of Assembly.

WOMANIFESTO comprises over 300 women’s rights activists, advocates, and organizations.

The delegation visited the Speaker in solidarity following her historic emergence as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Speaking during the visit, Speaker Meranda emphasized the significance of women’s empowerment, and urged the delegation to partner with the assembly.

“There is a saying that if you empower a woman, you empower a nation. I believe my colleagues made the right decision in electing me to lead them. I want this delegation to help me appreciate them. In this 10th Assembly, we are only four women among 36 men. For them to have entrusted me with this leadership role, I am truly grateful.”

She further assured her colleagues and the delegation of her commitment to delivering impactful leadership:

“I sincerely appreciate my colleagues for their belief in me and their support over the past few weeks. As I have always said, I have promised myself not to disappoint them.

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“I also want to thank this delegation for the show of love and support. Like someone rightly said, this is not just about me but about our gender as a whole. I can assure you that I will not let down the womenfolk or Lagos State in general.”

She urged WOMANIFESTO to collaborate with the Assembly in advancing policies that benefit Nigerian women and girls:

“This House of Assembly is your house. Lagos is the hub where major decisions are made, and other states follow suit. If we work together, the impact will spread across all 36 states.

“I encourage you to stay close and partner with us. Whatever ideas you have to improve the lives of Nigerians—especially women and the girl child—are welcome. My colleagues and I will give them due consideration and take necessary actions to make life better for Lagosians.”

Also speaking at the event, Hon. Sanni Ganiyu Babatunde Okanlawon, the lawmaker representing Kosofe Constituency 01, commended the WOMANIFESTO delegation and urged them to support Speaker Meranda’s leadership.

“Your organization upholds high standards, and I believe those standards will be maintained, especially now that we have a woman of substance, strong character, and vast experience leading this Assembly.

“She is well-prepared for the task ahead, but she still needs your support—intellectually and morally. Any contributions that will help her succeed, whether in drafting private members’ bills or promoting good governance, will be invaluable. Your assistance at this point in time is crucial,” he said.