As part of its ongoing drive to uplift women and promote grassroots empowerment, the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has disbursed ₦12.5 million in financial grants to 50 female-focused Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) across the State.
EpeInsights gathered that the grant presentation, held at the WAPA Conference Room in Alausa, Ikeja, brought together representatives of beneficiary NGOs, directors of the Ministry, and stakeholders dedicated to advancing women’s welfare and social inclusion in Lagos.
In her address, the Honourable Commissioner, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to partnering with credible organisations that share Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s vision of empowering women and eradicating poverty through skill development and inclusion.
“The Lagos State Government recognizes the invaluable role NGOs play in complementing our efforts to improve the lives of women and families,” Dada said.
“Today’s grant is not just financial support, it is an investment in your dedication, compassion, and service to humanity.”
She explained that the Grant-in-Aid Programme remains a cornerstone of WAPA’s strategy to strengthen collaboration between government and the non-governmental sector, ensuring that women and vulnerable groups at the grassroots benefit directly from development initiatives.
The Permanent Secretary of WAPA, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, commended the beneficiaries for their consistency and impact, urging them to sustain programmes that enhance the socio-economic wellbeing of women and girls across the State.
“True development thrives on collaboration and compassion,” she noted. “We encourage you to keep creating opportunities that empower women to be self-reliant and productive.”
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Folayemisi Adu, Executive Director of Hope Builders Skills Development and Acquisition Foundation, expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner, and the WAPA team for their continuous support of grassroots NGOs.
She assured that the grants would be judiciously utilized to strengthen existing projects that empower women, promote entrepreneurship, and foster sustainable livelihoods.
The Grant-in-Aid Programme underscores the Lagos State Government’s belief that when women are supported, communities thrive and through partnerships like this, the vision of a more inclusive and equitable Lagos continues to take shape.
