Ayodele Olalere
1,500 small business owners on Wednesday received working tools from the Lagos State government as part of the state’s Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI) Program.
The program organized by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, WAPA was the second edition after the first edition held in July this year.
The governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who was represented by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, at the presentation of tools and cash to the beneficiaries said the success of the first edition was inspiring and necessitated the continuation of the program.
Sanwo-Olu said the program has created opportunities, reduced poverty, and nurtured entrepreneurship spirit in small scale business owners.
He noted that the tools have helped to boost the economic growth and potential of women ensuring that every woman, regardless of her background or circumstances, has access to the tools and resources needed to transform her life, her community, and Lagos State at large.
The governor further said through skill acquisition programs, capacity building, and financial empowerment, poverty will soon become history in the state.
He admonished the beneficiaries to use the tools and cash given to them ‘to grow their businesses, improve your livelihood, and inspire others in your communities.’
Sanwo-Olu commended the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Cecilia Dada, for her dedication to making the program a success.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Cecilia Dada
said the initiative has served as a beacon of hope for many aspiring entrepreneurs in Lagos State.
Dada urged them to use the tools as a stepping stone to greater success, grow their businesses and uplift their communities.
“You have been entrusted with these resources because we believe in your potential to create, innovate, and excel.
Utilize the training, support, and resources provided through this initiative to not only uplift yourselves but also contribute positively to our communities,” she said.
Some of the equipment presented to the beneficiaries include stoning machines, pepper grinders, sewing machines, hair dryers, barbing kits (including clippers, sterilizers, and generators), standing facial steamers and aluminum cutting machines
Others are two-phase burners (including 30-inch cooking pots and 12.5kg cylinders), cake mixers, welding Machines, agricultural Items (fertilizers, knapsacks, and seeds) and cash grants.
