Toba Owojaiye Reporting
In a recent development, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has emphasized the importance of expertise and talent in governance while swearing in Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi as the Mandate Secretary for Women Affairs in the FCT. The ceremony took place in Abuja on October 24, 2023, with Justice C. Aghashieze representing the FCT Chief Judge.
Minister Wike emphasized the need for innovation and collaboration in this inaugural role within the FCT. He urged Mrs. Benjamins-Laniyi to utilize her extensive experience and talents to contribute to the governance structure, particularly focusing on women’s inclusion.
The Minister highlighted that the creation of the Women Affairs Secretariat is in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda. He commended both President Tinubu and the First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, for their commitment to inclusivity and the promotion of women in governance.
The Women Affairs Secretariat, now established as part of the FCTA, is designed to operate similarly to Women Affairs Ministries in other states of the federation.
Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, who was born on October 17, 1965, brings a wealth of experience to this position. She is a distinguished politician, a certified global communication expert, and an environmentalist. A graduate of the University of Ibadan, Mrs. Benjamins-Laniyi hails from Ogun State and holds the grand Matron position for the “Hope Again for FCT Women in Politics.” She also organizes an annual program focused on raising awareness about violence against women.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including the Minister of State of the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, FCT Permanent Secretary Mr. Olusade Adesola, and all mandate Secretaries of the FCTA. Family and friends of the new Secretary also joined to celebrate this significant milestone.
This appointment marks a crucial step toward fostering inclusivity and harnessing the talents and expertise of women in the governance structure of the Federal Capital Territory. Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi now holds the pioneering role of Secretary at the FCTA Women Affairs Secretariat, with high hopes for her contributions to the Renewed Hope agenda.