The Lagos State Government has empowered 5,339 residents with business tools and equipment, while graduating 5,310 others from its tuition-free skills acquisition centres in the past year.
This forms part of efforts to tackle poverty and promote economic self-reliance.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Mrs. Bolaji Dada, disclosed this on Monday during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing commemorating the second year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term.
Dada said the interventions reflect the government’s commitment to reducing poverty, creating jobs, and strengthening entrepreneurship. She noted that the state is investing in human capital development through its 19 skills acquisition centres spread across the five divisions and the Women Development Centre in Agege.
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“A total of 5,310 trainees successfully completed vocational programmes in fashion design, catering, cosmetology, barbing, information and communication technology, welding, furniture making, photography, textile production, and other trades,” she said.
“Many of the graduates have become business owners and employers of labour. Our skills acquisition centres are not only training residents but transforming lives by producing entrepreneurs who contribute to the economic growth of Lagos State.”
The commissioner added that the government complemented vocational training with the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI), under which 5,339 beneficiaries received tools and equipment to start or expand their businesses. She disclosed that about 70 per cent of those empowered were graduates of the state’s skills centres.
“Through MESI, beneficiaries have been provided with equipment to grow their businesses, turning dreams into sustainable livelihoods,” she said. “Our objective is to ensure that skills translate into sustainable income, financial independence, and long-term economic stability.”
Dada also said the ministry has intensified digital inclusion efforts among artisans, traders, and small business owners. She noted that 600 beneficiaries received Android phones after completing a three-day digital marketing and e-commerce training programme.
The participants were trained in online marketing, social media branding, customer engagement, and e-commerce strategies to enhance their competitiveness.
