In a sustained push to promote economic self-reliance among vulnerable groups, the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), led by Honourable Commissioner Mrs. Cecilia Bolaji Dada, has successfully concluded another phase of its short-term vocational training programme, empowering 250 women and youth with practical, income-generating skills.
EpeInsights gathered that the latest milestone was marked on Monday, August 4, 2025, with a colourful closing ceremony at the Skills Acquisition Centre, Lagos Island, where members of the Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria completed a four-week intensive training.
The programme, which follows a similar successful initiative in Agbowa-Ikosi, is part of WAPA’s ongoing efforts to bring empowerment closer to grassroots communities across Lagos State.
Participants were trained in high-demand vocational skills, including fabric stoning, paint production, soap making, event decoration, and catering — all tailored to help beneficiaries become self-employed and financially independent.
In her keynote address, Hon. Cecilia Dada commended Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the underprivileged, especially women and youth.
“We are proud of the commitment this administration has made to empower our people. Programmes like this do not just transfer skills they unlock futures, promote dignity, and drive sustainable economic growth,” she stated.
She further urged the graduating participants to put their new skills to good use, describing economic empowerment as a proven route out of poverty and a means of restoring dignity and hope in vulnerable communities.
To ensure immediate application of their new knowledge, the Ministry provided certificates of completion and starter packs to all successful participants, enabling them to launch small-scale enterprises in their respective specialisations.
The ceremony featured a vibrant display of the trainees’ handcrafted products and was graced by key dignitaries, including the Permanent Secretary of WAPA, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo; officials of the Ministry; religious leaders; and representatives from the Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria, including Empowerment Secretary Alhaji Ibrahim Sulaimon Ajao and Programme Coordinator Alhaja Adeyemo Fatimat.
