Ministry of Women Affairs Commences Year with Strategic Prayers and Reflections

The Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, convened a strategic meeting on Monday to set a spiritual and professional foundation for 2026. Held at the Ministry’s Conference Room, the session began with intercessory prayers led by a visiting minister, seeking divine guidance for the challenges ahead. The Commissioner noted that starting the year with gratitude is a longstanding tradition at WAPA to ensure a peaceful and productive work environment.

During her remarks, Hon. Dada expressed profound gratitude for the safety of all staff throughout the previous year, noting with relief that no lives were lost. She urged her team to cultivate a spirit of kindness and unity, explicitly asking staff to "bear no grudges" and support one another. The Commissioner emphasized that the Ministry’s success in poverty alleviation depends heavily on the internal harmony and collective strength of its personnel.

​The meeting also served as a performance review session, where staff were encouraged to reflect on the achievements and shortfalls of 2025. Hon. Dada challenged the various departments and units to think creatively and explore innovative approaches to service delivery. She stressed that 2026 requires a "renewed commitment" to executing tasks that directly impact the lives of vulnerable women and families across Lagos State.

​Adding a motivational perspective, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, introduced the theme "Dig Like the Aardvark." Using the analogy of the diligent animal, she explained that success in the public sector requires digging deep into one's talents and responsibilities to uncover valuable results. She reminded the staff that true growth in 2026 would only come through focus, perseverance, and a sense of urgency in their assignments.

The session concluded with a collective recommitment to the Ministry’s shared vision for the new year. By balancing spiritual reflection with strategic goal-setting, WAPA aims to enhance its social impact and reach more beneficiaries in 2026. The staff left the meeting with a clear mandate: to be their brother’s keeper while maintaining the discipline required to meet the high standards of the current administration.