Over 1,700 underprivileged residents in Lagos State have received life skills and startup resources through the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI). This initiative aims to drive entrepreneurship, reduce poverty, and boost the socio-economic wellbeing of vulnerable groups.
The programme, led by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, reinforces the state’s commitment to inclusive growth. It equips residents with practical skills in their chosen trades and provides essential tools to support new businesses.
At a graduation event held on Tuesday at De Blue Roof, Agidingbi, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu distributed equipment and startup funds to beneficiaries. He explained that MESI was created to uplift communities from the grassroots by investing in families, particularly women.
“This is a deliberate bottom-up strategy to empower households. When a woman is equipped, the entire family and community benefit. This ripple effect leads to wider growth across local governments and the state,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also revealed that his administration had invested nearly N10 billion in similar empowerment programmes. He urged recipients to use the resources wisely and grow sustainable businesses.
Representing the First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, praised MESI. She called it a model for promoting economic opportunities for women.
“Many women have turned their skills into successful businesses that now support their families. However, we must continue working to close the gap in economic inequality,” she said.
She encouraged beneficiaries to seize the opportunity and strive for long-term success.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, emphasized the goal of helping participants move from dependency to independence. She said the initiative was designed to restore dignity and promote self-reliance among Lagos residents.
