A woman centric radio program “Eve’s Lounge” held its first maiden outdoor edition at the West One Office Suite, Agodi-Secretariat in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital. The program, which started airing on Crest 91.1FM Ibadan on February 8th, 2023, focuses on addressing women’s issues and exploring ways to move the agenda forward.
The lead anchor and convener of the event, Damilola Amoo, who doubles as the Director of Media Operations, Initiative for Girls’ Right and Health Development, IGRHD, in her welcome speech said it is not going to be a one-off.
The Chief Operating Officer of Cresthills Media, Adeolu Gboyega emphasized the importance of the program to societal growth stressing that Crest FM will continually support women focused programs.
The mother of the day, Revd Dr Mrs Adetuberu,shared her valuable insights, stressing on women’s self-appreciation and the qualities that make women an essential part of society.
She encouraged the attendees not to let religion and culture determine their worth and to build their inner strength.
Also speaking, Mrs Oluwatoyin Afachung, the State Coordinator, Breakthrough Action Nigeria, an international NGO operating in 14 states, including Oyo, discussed the organization’s focus on malaria prevention and community engagement. She reiterated the significance of women in society, stating, “Women are a very important part of our society, and it is important that we take good care of our society.”
The event featured two panel sessions, with the first exploring how women can navigate between their homes and careers. CEO, Kijani media, Ambassador Ayo George, acknowledged the challenges faced by women in balancing these responsibilities, while the Director of Sales & marketing, Adron Homes, Mrs Olubisi Oriola, advised women not to jettison their dreams, citing the support of technology in fulfilling their career aspirations.
The Senior Program Coordinator, Centre for comprehensive promotion of Reproductive Health, CCPRH, Tolu Babawarun, made a case for women’s emancipation from anything that can hinder their growth While Broadcast Journalist, Folakemi Mighty, opined that healthy communication with one’s spouse can foster good home and career management.
In the second panel session, the discussion centered around the inclusion of women in decision-making. Former Chief Whip, Osun State House of Assembly, Hon Tunde Olatunji, highlighted the systemic conspiracy hindering women’s participation in decision making, noting that women has all it takes to actively partake in male-dominated positions even as a senior Legislative aide to senate president Godswill Akpabio, Sam Segun-progress, asserted that women should take up the roles they desire without waiting for a push.
On her part, Director, Goal Women Africa, Jaiyeola Omodolapo said the clamor for the representation of women in decision making is overrated, questioning what they bring on board.
Omodolapo, however, explained that deliberate actions should be considered and not the repeated talks about representation.
Reacting, CEO, Hacey Health Initiative, Rhoda Robinson, said there should be a space and unlimited platform for women to explore without prejudice or unwarranted questions.
The founder, Initiative for Girls’ Right and Health Development, IGRHD, Ayo Bello-Awodoyin, admonished individuals and organizations to continue to support Damilola Amoo and her program, Eve’s Lounge, to promote sustainable efforts in creating an inclusive, sane and safe environment for women and the girl child.
The event also featured a segment where Mrs Iwaladeorimi, a breast cancer survivor, shared her experience and encouraged women to seek medical attention, stating, “Cancer is not a spiritual attack.”
For inclusivity, the women leader and few members of the oyo state deaf women association were also in attendance with an interpreter to convey the discussions to them.
Other guests present include; Head of operations, Gamble Alert, Bernadette Ewomazino, Charity Jerome, Igho Loveth, Kemi Kumuyi, Adetutu Morenikeji, Imisioluwa Bamidele, Oreoluwa Aladejuyigbe, Crest FM staff, Programs Manager, BA-N, Mrs Adebisi Adetunji, FreshFM staff -Mr Samson Akindele, Faith Afolabi and Danpowertouch, among others.
The closing remarks were delivered by Olaide Abioye, the Head of Station at Crest 91.1FM Ibadan, who expressed gratitude to everyone that attended the impactful program.