Lagos empowers 1,750 vulnerable residents with equipment and cash grant

 

 By Kayode Olopade 

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday empowered 1,750 residents with equipment and financial gains.

The beneficiaries according to the Governor, went through training in various trades at 19 skill acquisition centres across the five IBILE divisions before being qualified to receive the gift items and cash donations.

The governor, while expressing his delight over the initiative, stated that the gesture was one of the measures put in place by his administration to upskill Lagos residents and alleviate poverty.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also advised the beneficiaries to make good use of the tools provided to them, adding that the essential tools are not meant to be sold, but to empower them in various vocations.

The Governor made this known on Tuesday during the year 2025 Micro Enterprise Support Initiative programme, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, WAPA, held at De Blue Roof, LTV 8, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed that the state has invested nearly N10 billion over the past six years in similar initiatives aimed at lifting residents out of poverty and promoting self-reliance.

“With every individual trained and equipped, we are not only creating entrepreneurs but planting seeds of economic growth. I urge all beneficiaries to use this opportunity wisely and avoid selling the equipment,” the governor said.

He emphasized the state government’s commitment to ensuring that the economic benefits of the initiative extend to women and vulnerable groups, and ultimately contribute to wealth creation across communities.

Earlier in her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Cecilia Dada, stated that more than 5,000 Lagosians have benefitted from the initiative since its inception. She urged the new beneficiaries to transition from subsistence to sustainability.

“This programme ensures no one is left behind. It is a tool to drive inclusive economic development and empower the most vulnerable among us,” Mrs. Dada said.

Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the state government and pledged to put the equipment to good use, while also advocating for the continuation and expansion of the initiative so more people can benefit.