Oyo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Hon. (Mrs.) Toyin Balogun, has called on women to move beyond superficial appearances and invest in their personal growth and self-worth.
Speaking on Saturday at the Bubu Day Hangout organized by the Ibadan Women’s Network, held at Dominion Halls, Ring Road, Ibadan, Balogun emphasized that while beauty and style may open doors, it is competence and value that command respect and influence.
“The packaging, the beauty, the fashion – they may get you into the room or even at the table,” Balogun noted. “But they won’t make your voice heard or earn you lasting respect. That only comes when you have something of value to offer.”
She encouraged women to channel their creativity and resilience into meaningful pursuits, stressing that women are powerful beings created by God to positively influence their communities.
“You can only unlock your potential when you recognize your worth and commit to making the most of it,” she said.
Highlighting the efforts of the Seyi Makinde-led administration to empower women in the state, Balogun cited several initiatives, including the recently approved free health insurance for 10,000 women, and access to small business loans.
Earlier, founder of the Ibadan Women’s Network, Alhaja Balkiz Karheem, welcomed participants and expressed appreciation for their massive turnout, particularly the presence of Hon. Balogun, the day’s special guest of honour.
She stated that the network was founded to celebrate and empower Ibadan women, while challenging stereotypes that portray them as limited to domestic roles.
“There are many successful women from Ibadan — professionals, entrepreneurs, and trailblazers in their fields,” she said. “This platform allows us to connect, grow, and inspire one another.”
Themed “Elevated Womanhood: Grace, Goals, and God,” the hangout aimed to spotlight excellence among Ibadan women while fostering sisterhood and personal development.
The lively and colorful event featured a red carpet, games, style contests, dance competitions, networking, gift exchanges, and more. Attendees showcased vibrant Bubu fashion in various colors and designs.
Among the notable attendees were Miss Agbede Adenike, a public health nurse; Temilade Asunde of Vine Buds Private School; makeup artist Mrs. Adegbile of C&K Fragrance and Perfume Empire; and Adeoshun Ibiyemi.
Also present were Olori Ilori Olusegun; Joyce Adeseyawe of Adesecare Skin Care and Makeup; Owoade Aanuoluwa, a food vendor; Akintan Oluwabunmi of Bhumyth Multi Ventures; and freight forwarder Mrs. Bello Motunrayo of Queenhazbell, among many others.
In a show of support, Engr. Abduljelyl Adekunle Karheem — CEO of Afia Construction and Building Engineering Consultancy Services Ltd., Turaki Adinni of Oyo State, and Mogaji of the Adanla Compound — also graced the occasion to support his wife, Alhaja Balkiz Karheem.
The event affirmed the growing movement of women in Ibadan stepping confidently into leadership, entrepreneurship, and community influence.
