Oluwadamilare Adebowale Bashir, an aspirant for Ikeja Constituency I, at the Lagos State House of Assembly, is advancing a vision of public service that places gender inclusivity at the center of Lagos’ social and economic development. Drawing inspiration from the leadership philosophy of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Bashir is positioning women and girls as critical drivers of growth, innovation and long-term prosperity.
Beyond the broader discourse on economic expansion, Bashir speaks with clarity about the role of women in shaping the future of society. He views women not only as participants but as essential contributors whose inclusion can significantly strengthen public service, enterprise and community development. For him, building a more balanced society begins with creating deliberate pathways that allow women to thrive across all sectors.
Central to this vision is education, particularly for the girl child. Bashir emphasizes the need for increased investment in STEM, literacy and the creative arts, noting that these areas provide the foundation for both intellectual growth and economic participation. He advocates for structured support systems, including scholarships for academically gifted girls and expanded access to quality education that prepares them for leadership roles in a rapidly evolving world.
In advancing this agenda, Bashir points to practical examples from Tinubu’s political legacy. During his tenure as Governor of Lagos State, Tinubu was known for appointing women into key leadership roles across government, strengthening their presence in decision-making spaces. His administration also supported policies that expanded access to education and economic opportunities, creating room for women to participate more actively in governance and enterprise. In subsequent years, his broader political influence has continued to encourage female representation in public office and institutional leadership, reinforcing the importance of inclusion as a guiding principle.
In addition to education, Bashir underscores the importance of mentorship and leadership development programs. He believes that equipping women with the right guidance, exposure and training will not only enhance their individual potential but also position them to contribute meaningfully to business, politics and public service. According to him, empowering women is not a symbolic gesture but a strategic necessity for sustainable development.
Bashir’s approach reflects a continuation of this inclusive framework. As an aspirant seeking to represent Ikeja Constituency I, he aims to deepen opportunities for women in Lagos, particularly by expanding their access to education, leadership training and economic platforms. His goal is to ensure that women and girls are not just included, but are actively shaping the direction of society.
For Bashir, the objective is clear; to foster an environment where women and girls are supported to excel, lead and innovate without limitation. His advocacy signals a broader commitment to building a Lagos where inclusivity is not aspirational, but institutional.
