Lagos: The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), has reaffirmed its commitment to financially empower women via various programmes. Mrs. Bolaji Dada, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, made this known at the Life Skill Economic Empowerment Programme (LEEP) closing ceremony in Agbowa/Ikosi.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, no fewer than 250 women and youths were empowered with startup tools after completing WAPA’s four-week LEEP training in the area. Participants acquired skills in paint making, tie and dye, make-up and gele, hairdressing, catering, stoning, pomade, insecticides, and other household product production.
Dada described the programme as WAPA’s flagship initiative, designed to empower grassroots women across various local communities in Lagos State. She highlighted the ceremony as a celebration of those who completed the four-week training and are now ready to embark on their journey to economic independence. The programme saw graduates from Ikosi Ejirin Centre, Owu-Ikosi, Ajeregun, Imofa, Ado, Otta-Ikosi, Odo-Ayandelu, and other communities.
The commissioner emphasized the focus on equipping people, especially women, with income-generating skills that can alleviate household poverty. This batch also included persons with disabilities, reinforcing WAPA’s inclusive empowerment vision where no one is left behind. She praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for promoting inclusive growth, gender equity, and grassroots empowerment across the state.
Traditional ruler of Owu-Ikosi, Oba Abayomi Ogunlari, expressed appreciation to the state government and WAPA for the empowerment programme, encouraging continued outreach to the vulnerable and underprivileged within society.
WAPA’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rainat Ajibike-Onigbanjo, represented by Mrs. Funke Shyllon, encouraged beneficiaries to apply their new skills within their communities, marking a renewed focus and partnerships for a more inclusive Lagos.
A beneficiary, Jelili Ayobola, shared his experience, stating he mastered paint production during the training and gained valuable marketing and sourcing skills. He expressed gratitude to WAPA for the opportunity and plans to build on the skills acquired.