LAGOS, Nigeria – The governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, said his administration, in the last four years, invested over N8.4billion to support more than 12,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME’s).
This, he said, while 1,700 artisans received working tools at the first 2025 empowerment programme, organised by the Lagos State Ministry for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), at the Blue Roof, LTV premises, in Ikeja.
The beneficiaries had undergone training at various vocational centres and were presented with tools by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to enable them kick start their profession.
The 2025 Micro Enterprise Support Initiative tools distributed are hairdressing kits, such as hair dryer and attachments; two-face burners, sewing machines, stoning machines, aluminium fabrication machines, smoking kits, pepper grinder, barbering kits, such as clipper, steriliser and generator.
Others are: POS, cash grants, cake mixer, pedicure sets, photography equipment such as camera and camera stand, carpentry equipment and agric Items.
According to the governor, while presenting tools to the artisans, it was part of measures by his administration to alleviate poverty in the state.
“This initiative is a key part of our administration’s mission to empower women and combat poverty through the development of micro-enterprises. This year, we’re ramping up funding, focusing on skills development, and enhancing support for women-led businesses, all driven by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation’s commitment to unity, innovation, and effective service delivery,” he said.
He noted that there were more beneficiaries this year compared to previous years because more funds have been allocated for the programme.
Sanwo-Olu urged the beneficiaries not to sell the tools but use them to grow their businesses, create jobs, and support others.
”Let this be the beginning of something great. As you rise, remember to lift others along the way. When you find success, share your knowledge with those around you. And as you grow, don’t forget to give back to the communities that nurtured you,” the governor advised.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Hon Bolaji Cecilia Dada, said since inception, the initiative has directly empowered thousands of indigent Lagosian, providing equipment, training and start-up capital.
She also urged beneficiaries to use the tools for the purpose for which they were given.
“Invest wisely, do not sell these items given to you, and do not despise the days of your humble beginnings, pay forward the benefits you receive by mentoring others in your communities.
“Your success will become the catalyst for further growth, inspiring the next generation of micro‑entrepreneurs across our state,” she said.
