The ancient city of Ibadan came alive on Thursday, April 2, 2026, as prominent women of Ibadan ancestry gathered for the Ibadan Women’s Conference 2026, held at Bode Amoo Hall, Ibadan House, Oke Aremo, Yemetu.
The event attracted a large turnout of distinguished Ibadan indigenes and stakeholders across various sectors. Among those in attendance were Bola Doherty, who chaired the occasion, and Onikepo Akande, who delivered the keynote address. Also present were Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatubosun; President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole, alongside members of the council; and representatives from women’s groups, non-governmental organisations, security agencies, and the media.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Gbolagade, stated that the conference was the outcome of extensive consultations across different segments of Ibadan society, reflecting a collective commitment to advancing the role of women in development.
A highlight of the conference was the debut participation of the Oyenike Oyekan Foundation, which delivered a presentation on breast cancer awareness. Speaking on behalf of the foundation, Programme Coordinator Precious Fasiku emphasized the importance of early detection in the treatment and management of breast cancer, noting that “cancer is not a death sentence.”
She stressed the need for regular medical check-ups among women and dispelled common myths surrounding the disease, clarifying that cancer is not caused by supernatural forces but is linked to genetic and lifestyle factors. According to her, ignorance remains a major barrier in combating the disease, and the foundation is committed to raising awareness and promoting access to accurate information and treatment.
In her keynote address, Akande urged women to foster unity and support one another in leadership pursuits. She noted that while women possess equal capabilities as men, a lack of mutual support has hindered their progress.
She called on women to abandon divisive tendencies and adopt strategies that promote collective advancement, emphasizing that greater cooperation is essential for achieving meaningful empowerment and representation in leadership positions.
The conference brought together diverse voices and perspectives, reinforcing the importance of collaboration, health awareness, and solidarity among women in Ibadan and beyond.