Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to economic empowerment, particularly for women, men, and young adults, emphasizing the transformative potential of skills development and entrepreneurship. Speaking at the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI) programme recently held at De Blue Roof, LTV Complex, Agidingbi, Ikeja, and represented by the First Lady, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the Governor highlighted the state’s vision of building an inclusive economy where residents can achieve self-reliance and financial independence. He noted that by empowering citizens through skills acquisition and access to start-up resources, the programme lays the foundation for sustainable livelihoods and a more prosperous Lagos.
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) for spearheading MESI, describing it as a strategic intervention that equips participants with entrepreneurial skills, start-up kits, and mentorship to navigate today’s competitive economy. The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, observed that the programme reduces unemployment, uplifts families, and strengthens community resilience. She emphasized that the initiative enables residents to take charge of their future and that the government remains committed to expanding it so more Lagosians can benefit. Permanent Secretary Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo also lauded the facilitators, beneficiaries, and partners, urging participants to apply their skills productively and become ambassadors of self-reliance.
The benefits of MESI are evident in the thousands of students who have graduated from WAPA skills acquisition centres, with 70 per cent of beneficiaries trained in fields ranging from fashion design, catering, carpentry, ICT, and household essentials production. These programmes equip participants with both technical expertise and start-up resources, fostering entrepreneurship, reducing dependency on government support, and stimulating economic activity across the state. By nurturing micro-enterprises, MESI contributes to poverty alleviation, strengthens local economies, and encourages innovation and job creation.
However, challenges remain. Scaling the programme to reach all 57 local government areas and local council development areas requires sustained funding, continuous mentorship, and robust monitoring to ensure beneficiaries successfully translate skills into viable businesses. Market saturation, limited access to capital beyond start-up kits, and competition in certain sectors may also constrain growth for micro-entrepreneurs. Lessons from previous MESI cohorts indicate that without ongoing support, some beneficiaries may struggle to sustain their ventures, highlighting the need for follow-up programmes and private sector partnerships to maximize impact.
In conclusion, MESI represents a strategic approach by the Lagos State Government to tackle poverty and unemployment while promoting inclusive growth. By providing skills, resources, and mentorship, the initiative empowers residents to generate income, innovate, and contribute to local economic development. While challenges in scaling and sustainability exist, the programme’s successes to date underscore the potential for government-led empowerment initiatives to transform communities, create resilient livelihoods, and foster long-term prosperity across Lagos State.
Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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