Nobel Peace Prize nominee Zuriel Oduwole and Sterling One Foundation have called for sustained action to advance gender equality and youth empowerment.
During a courtesy visit to the office of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, discussions focused on strengthening initiatives that support young women and amplify African voices on the global stage while emphasizing the need for inclusive opportunities for young leaders.
Oduwole emphasized the role of storytelling in shaping narratives and inspiring action.
“I have seen the power of storytelling in changing perceptions and opening doors for young people. When we share our stories, we inspire action. I am grateful to our partners for amplifying young voices and creating opportunities that make a real difference,” she said.
Her remarks reinforced the importance of storytelling in shifting mindsets, influencing policies, and creating lasting social impact. The need for sustained investment in platforms that empower young women and girls remains critical.
Speaking on the foundation’s commitment to gender equality, Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, highlighted the need to amplify African stories and drive impact through intentional programming. She also reflected on the 2025 International Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action.”
“At Sterling One Foundation, we are intentional about telling African stories that reflect the strength and potential of our people. This is evident in our focus areas, where we have deliberately mainstreamed gender equality and women’s empowerment,” Ibekwe stated.
“This aligns with the call to ‘Accelerate Action’ this International Women’s Day, reinforcing the urgency of breaking barriers for women and girls. We are proud of Zuriel Oduwole for amplifying these values on the global stage, and we remain committed to creating an environment where young changemakers, especially women and girls, have the support and opportunities they need to lead and succeed.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended Oduwole’s historic Nobel Peace Prize nomination, describing it as a milestone for Nigeria and Africa.
“This achievement reflects the resilience and determination of our people. In the past five years, we have faced COVID-19, economic challenges, and instability, yet we have continued to create opportunities for young Nigerians in technology, finance, and entertainment,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The Governor stated that the THEMES Plus agenda of the state reinforces its commitment to inclusion and youth empowerment.
“Lagos is proud to support Zuriel’s journey and work with the Sterling One Foundation to expand opportunities for the next generation,” he added.
Sterling One Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable change through strategic interventions in gender equality, youth empowerment, and social development.
At 22 years old, Oduwole is the youngest Nigerian ever nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize and the first to be recognized in this category. Her global advocacy in education, gender equality, and youth inclusion has influenced policies and engaged decision-makers across multiple countries.
Sterling One Foundation, known for its investments in social impact across critical sectors, has integrated gender equality and women’s empowerment into its initiatives. The foundation ensures that young women and girls have access to the resources, platforms, and opportunities needed to succeed.
Sterling One Foundation (SOF) is a non-profit organization focused on tackling the root causes of poverty in Nigeria and Africa through interventions across five key sectors: Climate action, Health, Education and youth development, Gender equality and empowerment, Food security, The foundation’s programmes prioritize partnerships to drive the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).