Francesca Odimgbe
The Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration has reiterated its commitment to initiatives that will create opportunities, reduce poverty, nurture entrepreneurial spirit, and promote inclusivity and economic empowerment for residents of Lagos State.
Sanwo-Olu made the commitment on Wednesday at the second phase of the 2024 Micro Enterprise Support Initiative programme for 1,500 Lagos State residents, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA).
During the event, tools and equipment were distributed to support beneficiaries in their businesses. The items distributed to meet the diverse needs of entrepreneurs were Stoning machines, Pepper grinders, Sewing machines, Hair dryers, Barbing kits (including clippers, sterilisers and generators), Standing facial steamers, Aluminum cutting machines, Two-Phase burners (including 30-inch cooking pots and 12.5kg cylinders), Cake mixers, Welding machines, Agricultural items (fertilizers, knapsacks, and seeds) and Cash grants.
The Governor, who spoke briefly before departing to Abuja and later represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, at the event, noted that through skill acquisition, capacity building, and financial empowerment, poverty would become a thing of the past in Lagos, thereby making prosperity a reality.
He said the initiative is another testament to his administration’s unwavering commitment to creating a Greater Lagos where every citizen can thrive and contribute meaningfully to collective progress.
The Governor disclosed that the overwhelming success of the first edition of this programme held in July, based on testimonies from some of the beneficiaries, made it an easy decision to approve this second phase within the same year.
He said: “The Micro Enterprise Support Initiative programme goes beyond financial support; it is about building a foundation for self-reliance, boosting economic growth, and unleashing the potential of our women. It ensures that every woman, regardless of her background or circumstances, has access to the tools and resources needed to transform her life, her community, and Lagos State at large.
“Through skill acquisition, capacity building, and financial empowerment, we are creating a future where poverty becomes history, and prosperity becomes a reality. Today’s beneficiaries are an integral part of this vision. To you, I say: seize this opportunity with both hands. Use these resources wisely to grow your businesses, improve your livelihood, and inspire others in your communities. Remember, this program is a stepping stone to even greater achievements, and your success contributes to the larger success of Lagos State.
“As an administration, we remain steadfast in our commitment to initiatives that promote inclusivity, economic empowerment, and poverty alleviation. Together, we are building a Lagos where everyone has a fair chance to succeed and thrive.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Dada, and her exceptional team for their dedication to making the programme a reality and for the empowerment of thousands of residents.
He urged beneficiaries of the government gestures to use the resources wisely to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods as well as inspire others in their communities.
Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, noted that the initiative represents not just a programme but a beacon of hope for many aspiring entrepreneurs in Lagos State, especially women to lift them out of poverty through entrepreneurship.
She urged the beneficiaries to embrace the opportunities given to them and to work tirelessly towards achieving their entrepreneurial dreams.
“These valuable assets symbolise not just tools of trade but instruments of transformation, designed to enable you to grow your businesses and uplift your communities. I would like to admonish each of you who are about to receive these resources: this is more than just an opportunity; it is a stepping stone to greater success,” she advised.
Some of the beneficiaries thanked the State government for the gesture and promised to utilise the working tools effectively and also use their skills to empower other people in their neighbourhood.