MWAPA, SANWO-OLU UNLEASH FRESH WAVE OF ENTREPRENEURS WITH TOOLS, GRANTS
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By Oduoa F.A
Agidingbi, Lagos – April 29, 2025
Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MWAPA), on Tuesday empowered 1,700 beneficiaries with essential tools, equipment, and financial grants following their completion of a six-month training programme under the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI).
The graduation and empowerment ceremony, held at De Blue Roof, Agidingbi, Ikeja, was filled with excitement and gratitude as newly trained entrepreneurs received items ranging from stoning and sewing machines for fashion design, baking ovens, hairdressing kits, POS machines, digital cameras and tripods for photographers, carpentry tools, barbing kits, agricultural equipment, and cash grants.
Speaking at the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted that the initiative has so far cost the government nearly ₦10 billion since inception, empowering over 12,000 small businesses across Lagos. He stressed that MESI is a strategic investment to drive self-reliance and grassroots development.
“This is not just a giveaway; it is about building people up and creating sustainable economic growth from the ground up. When we empower one entrepreneur, we empower a community,” the governor said. “The success of each beneficiary becomes a spark that lights up Lagos.”
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, described the initiative as a life-changing programme that reflects the THEMES+ agenda of inclusiveness and human capital development. She emphasized the need for beneficiaries to use their tools wisely and not sell them.
“Do not despise the days of humble beginnings,” she warned. “Let these tools be the stepping stones to independence. Mentor others, pay it forward, and help multiply the impact across our communities.”
Dada added that the ministry runs 19 tuition-free skills acquisition centres across the five divisions of Lagos, accessible to all residents regardless of background or faith.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary of MWAPA, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, applauded Governor Sanwo-Olu for his consistent support and visionary leadership. She congratulated the beneficiaries and implored them to make judicious use of the equipment and resources provided, emphasizing that the real success lies in their ability to transform these tools into thriving enterprises.
In interviews with Hotjist, several beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu and Commissioner Dada, describing the six-month training as a transformative experience. Many said they now feel confident and equipped to start their own businesses and pledged to make the most of the opportunity given to them.
Dignitaries at the event included the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat; the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho; Permanent Secretary of MWAPA, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo; ministry directors, trainers, and partners.
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