Hon. Owolabi-Bada conveyed her gratitude shortly after assuming office, acknowledging the role played by the Somolu council boss, Hon. Lateef Ashimi, as well as his predecessors, Hon. AbdulHamed Salawu, popularly known as “Dullar”, not leaving the former First Lady of Somolu LG, Hon. Mrs Florence Salawu and Hon. Mrs Mariam Omotanwa Salau, in shaping her political journey and encouraging her dedication to public service.
She also extended special appreciation to the Mayoress of Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada, whose support and encouragement, she said, contributed immensely to her attainment of the new position.
In her remarks, Hon. Maryam Owolabi-Bada described the appointment as a call to greater responsibility and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of women and vulnerable groups in Somolu.
She noted that the confidence reposed in her by the council chairman and other leaders would inspire her to work diligently towards improving the welfare of women, promoting empowerment initiatives, and strengthening poverty alleviation programmes across the local government.
According to her, “I am deeply grateful to the Executive Chairman of Somolu Local Government, Hon. Lateef Ashimi, for finding me worthy to serve as Special Adviser on Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. I equally appreciate his predecessors, Hon. AbdulHamed Salawu ‘Dullar’, his beloved wife, and the former First Lady of Somolu LG, Hon. Mrs Florence Salawu and Hon. Mrs Mariam Omotanwa Salau, for their encouragement and support over the years.”
She further commended the Mayoress of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, Hon. Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada, for her steadfast support and mentorship, noting that her leadership qualities have continued to inspire many women in politics and public administration.
Hon. Maryam-Bada assured residents of Somolu Local Government that she would utilise her new office to champion policies and programmes that would empower women, reduce poverty, and improve the living conditions of families within the council area.
She also pledged to collaborate closely with community leaders, women’s groups, youth organisations and other stakeholders to ensure that government initiatives targeted at women and vulnerable citizens achieve meaningful results.
The Special Adviser reiterated her commitment to supporting the vision and developmental agenda of the Ashimi-led administration, while calling on residents of Somolu to continue supporting the council leadership in its efforts to promote inclusive growth and sustainable development in the area.
Political stakeholders and community members have since congratulated Hon. Maryam Owolabi-Bada on her appointment, expressing optimism that her experience and dedication will further strengthen women-focused initiatives and poverty alleviation programmes within Somolu Local Government.