The Lagos State Government has once again demonstrated its resolve to uplift its citizens through economic empowerment and inclusive development, as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to poverty alleviation and self-reliance during the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI) programme held recently at De Blue Roof, LTV Complex, Agidingbi, Ikeja.
EpeInsights reports that the Governor who was represented by the First Lady, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, highlighted the strategic importance of the MESI programme in building a Lagos where all residents particularly women, men and young adults are empowered to thrive economically and socially.
“This initiative is a demonstration of our government’s commitment to poverty alleviation through skills acquisition,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said.
“By empowering our women and young people, we are creating sustainable livelihoods and laying the foundation for a more prosperous Lagos.”
He added that MESI exemplifies the state’s vision for an inclusive economy, providing a pathway for financial independence through entrepreneurship and innovation.
The MESI programme, spearheaded by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), provides participants with hands-on training, entrepreneurial skills, start-up kits, and ongoing mentorship in various vocations. These include fashion design, catering, carpentry, information and communications technology (ICT) and household essentials production.
The initiative primarily targets graduates from WAPA’s skills acquisition centres, who make up 70% of the programme’s beneficiaries. Over the years, MESI has empowered thousands across the state, helping them transition from dependence to self-sufficiency.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, lauded the programme’s practical impact on individuals, families, and communities. She stated that MESI is not just a one-off intervention but a transformative effort to reduce unemployment and bolster grassroots resilience.
“What we are witnessing today is the practical outcome of a vision that empowers citizens to take charge of their future,” Dada said. “The government remains committed to expanding this programme so that more Lagosians can benefit.”
Delivering the vote of thanks, Permanent Secretary Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo expressed gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support of the Ministry’s initiatives. She also acknowledged the facilitators, beneficiaries, and partners who contributed to the success of the MESI programme.
“I urge all participants to put their newly acquired skills to productive use,” Onigbanjo said. “Become ambassadors of self-reliance and inspire others within your communities.”
MESI aligns with the broader objectives of the Lagos State Government to address poverty through empowerment, innovation, and inclusive economic participation. By targeting all 57 local government areas and local council development areas (LCDAs), the programme ensures that opportunity is extended to every corner of the state.
The event at Ikeja served not only as a graduation and empowerment ceremony but also as a powerful statement of the government’s enduring commitment to sustainable development.
As Lagos continues to evolve into a global megacity, initiatives like MESI reflect the government’s focus on human capital development, job creation and poverty reduction, key pillars in achieving a more equitable and prosperous society for all.
