Lagos: Mrs. Omope Adedeji, Chairman of Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State, has announced the empowerment of 1,500 artisans with N150 million in business support since April. This announcement was made at the third edition of the Artisan Empowerment programme held at the council secretariat on Wednesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the first edition of the programme began on April 1, with N50 million distributed to 500 artisans, followed by a second edition on July 28. In this third edition, Mrs. Adedeji confirmed that 500 beneficiaries each received a cash palliative of ?100,000.
Adedeji addressed the challenges faced by small businesses during her speech, emphasizing the council’s aim to change the prevailing narrative through these grants. She highlighted that beneficiaries included leather workers, bead makers, soap makers, printers, and petty traders, who were empowered to help mitigate the economic challenges affecting grassroots families and local enterprises.
The programme, according to Adedeji, is not solely about financial support but also focuses on investing in the skills and business ventures of the local populace to ensure their economic independence. She emphasized the administration’s commitment to empowering the community and creating opportunities to improve livelihoods.
The chairman urged beneficiaries to utilize the support productively to expand their businesses, employ others, and strengthen their contribution to the local economy. Adedeji reassured Bariga LCDA residents that the empowerment initiative would persist, with the government continuing to explore practical support avenues for artisans, youths, women, and other vulnerable groups.
Mr. Kolade Alabi, the immediate past chairman of the LCDA and APC House of Representatives candidate for Shomolu, also spoke at the event. He highlighted the council’s belief in small and medium-scale enterprises as the backbone of a thriving economy and community. Mr. Akin Mejolagbe, APC Chairman in Bariga, commended Mrs. Adedeji for her impactful leadership.
Beneficiary Taibat Awosika expressed gratitude to the council chairman, acknowledging that the fund would significantly aid in the growth of her trade.