The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MWAPA), has successfully held the third edition of the Micro-Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI) on Wednesday, 10th December, at the LTV Complex, Agidingbi, Ikeja, empowering thousands of residents across the State.
In his address, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth, describing MESI as “An essential expression of our THEMES Plus agenda, which places strong emphasis on social inclusion, human development and the protection of vulnerable citizens.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Lagos State Chairman, All Progressive Congress (APC), Hon. Pastor Colinus Ojelabi emphasised that the State’s vision remains firm. “To build a Lagos where every citizen – regardless of gender, age, or social status – has the opportunity to advance. Empowerment is not just a programme for us; it is a core strategy for building a resilient economy”, he added.
He noted with pride that 18,963 residents have been empowered to date through various initiatives of the Ministry, reflecting the government’s continuous push to strengthen micro-enterprises and uplift vulnerable groups.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, outlined the Ministry’s overarching mandate, saying “To build pathways for vulnerable persons, women, young adults, widows, people living with disabilities, and unemployed graduates – ensuring that everyone, regardless of circumstance, has an opportunity to thrive.”
The Commissioner further stated that in this edition alone, 18,963 beneficiaries across Lagos State are being equipped with income-generating tools, demonstrating the government’s firm resolve to reduce poverty, encourage self-reliance, and sustain micro-enterprises at the grassroots level.
Beneficiaries received a wide range of tools tailored to their respective trades, including Stoning machines, Pepper grinding machines, Sewing machines, Hairdressing kits, Photography equipment, Vulcanizing machines, Barbing kits with sterilising units and generators, Agricultural equipment, Two-faced gas burners, Cake mixers, Aluminium cutting machines, and Carpentry tools.
In her Vote of Thanks, the Permanent Secretary of MWAPA, Mrs Rianat Onigbanjo, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support and to the Honourable Commissioner, Mrs Cecilia Dada, for her exceptional leadership. She also commended the directors and staff of the Ministry for their dedication to delivering impactful programmes that continue to touch lives across the state.
In attendance were the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Bimbola Hundeyin; Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs and Job Creation, Honourable Omolara Oyekan Olumegbon; State Executive Council Members, APC party Secretary, Permanent Secretaries, officials of the state and beneficiaries who were glad to receive their tools to enhance their businesses.
The third edition of MESI stands as yet another milestone in Lagos State’s sustained efforts to reduce poverty, expand economic opportunities, and promote inclusive development.
