Eve’s Lounge 3.0: Women Must Move Beyond Participation to Decision-Making Tables, Stakeholders Declare

Stakeholders from government, media, business, civil society and development organisations have called for greater representation and leadership opportunities for women, insisting that conversations on gender equality must translate into measurable impact. The call was made at the third edition of Eve's Lounge, held on June 19, 2026, at Mauve 21 Event Centre, Ibadan, with the theme "The Liberated Woman: Power, Voice and Choices." The event was convened by broadcast journalist and media entrepreneur, Damilola Amoo. Speaking as Special Guest of Honour, SDP presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo said no society can achieve meaningful development without prioritising the welfare, rights and empowerment of women. He stressed that investing in women is both a moral responsibility and a practical necessity for national development. Member representing Oluyole Federal Constituency, Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, challenged societal structures limiting women's political participation, questioning how many women would make it to the National Assembly in 2027. She urged stakeholders to ensure gender inclusion conversations produce tangible results, adding that women should be judged by their competence rather than their gender. Dr. Omolara Ejiade of the DAWN Commission described a liberated woman as one with agency over her body, voice and decisions, while Hon. Yetunde Tinuola Adeoye, representing Hon. Olufunke Comforter Olajide, said liberation means being educated, confident and solution-driven. Cresthills Media Group COO, Adeolu Gboyega, added that liberation is about maximising one's potential, not competing with men, while Crest 91.1FM Head of Station, Olaide Abioye, urged women to uphold integrity and self-worth. During the panel session, entrepreneur Kemi Irinoye emphasised the importance of value, integrity and intentional growth, describing a liberated woman as one who understands her power and uses her voice to create opportunities. Veteran broadcaster Anikeade Funke-Treasure encouraged women to recognise their talents, embrace opportunities and contribute meaningfully to nation-building. AKModel Group Managing Director, Dr. Akeem Odegade, commended the vision behind Eve's Lounge and reaffirmed support for platforms promoting leadership and inclusion. Convener Damilola Amoo described a liberated woman as one whose voice is heard, whose choices are respected and whose opportunities are not limited by discrimination. She expressed optimism that gender advocacy was gradually yielding results, particularly with increased women's participation in politics. Amoo also expressed confidence that future editions of Eve's Lounge would continue to grow, appreciating sponsors and partners including AKModel Group, Golden Penny Foods and African Women in Media (AWiM). The event also welcomed members of the Deaf Women Association in Oyo State and Hope Soars Foundation for Widows as part of its commitment to inclusion. Originally launched as a women-focused radio programme on Crest 91.1FM Ibadan, Eve's Lounge has evolved into an annual platform advancing conversations on leadership, governance, inclusion and gender equity. Powered by Damstar Media & Communications, the event attracted government officials, entrepreneurs, media professionals, development practitioners, students, civil society organisations and community leaders. OYO NEWS