Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to empowering residents through sustainable economic support programmes as he joined beneficiaries of the 2026 Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI).
Epe Insights reports that Dr. Hamzat participated in the 2026 MESI programme organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), where beneficiaries received support aimed at strengthening small businesses and improving livelihoods.
The Deputy Governor described the initiative as a practical investment in the people of Lagos, noting that economic empowerment remains a key pillar of the state’s development agenda.
He said the programme reflects the government’s determination to create opportunities for hardworking residents by equipping them with resources that can help them build sustainable sources of income.
According to Dr. Hamzat, supporting micro and small enterprises is essential to promoting inclusive economic growth and reducing poverty across communities.
He explained that when small business owners succeed, families become more financially secure and local economies become stronger.
The Deputy Governor noted that every thriving microenterprise contributes to employment creation, increased productivity, and greater economic resilience within the state.
He encouraged beneficiaries to make effective use of the opportunity by investing wisely in their businesses and remaining committed to growth and innovation.
Dr. Hamzat also urged participants to manage the support responsibly and develop sustainable business practices that will enable them to expand over time.
He said programmes such as the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative demonstrate the Lagos State Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurs.
The Deputy Governor commended the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation for sustaining initiatives that improve the welfare of residents and empower vulnerable groups.
He noted that the ministry has continued to play an important role in implementing programmes that promote financial independence and social inclusion.
The Micro Enterprise Support Initiative has become one of the state’s empowerment programmes designed to provide economic opportunities for eligible residents through business support.
Observers said the initiative continues to strengthen grassroots entrepreneurship by helping beneficiaries establish new ventures and expand existing businesses.
The programme also promotes self-reliance by encouraging participants to become job creators within their communities rather than job seekers.
Stakeholders believe sustained investment in small businesses will enhance local economic development and improve the standard of living for many households.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for the opportunity, describing the support as timely and capable of transforming their businesses.
Many of the participants said the assistance would enable them to improve productivity, increase income, and better provide for their families.
Dr. Hamzat congratulated all beneficiaries and encouraged them to remain focused, hardworking, and determined to achieve lasting success.
He expressed confidence that the skills, resources, and support provided through the programme would help participants contribute meaningfully to the continued growth and prosperity of Lagos State.
The Deputy Governor reaffirmed that the Lagos State Government will continue to implement programmes that empower residents, strengthen communities, and drive sustainable economic development across the state.
