The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has empowered some 100 women in Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area (LCDA) with skills and equipment for businesses.
This is to help boost their financial independence and self-reliance.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training, organised by WAPA, had the theme: ‘Lifeskills Economic Empowerment Programme for Residents of Eti-Osa East.’
The beneficiaries were empowered with skills including make-up and headgear tying, catering, throw pillows, fabric stoning and embellishment and soap making.
The beneficiaries received start-up packs with equipment that could enable them to begin their businesses immediately from home.
Mrs Bolaji Dada, Lagos State Commissioner, WAPA, said the initiative was aimed at empowering women with entrepreneurship skills and work tools, to make them financially independent and self-reliant.
Dada, who was represented by Mrs Olufunke Shyllon, Director, Women Department, said the training was the beginning of new opportunities and pathways toward a brighter future for the beneficiaries.
She said the challenges women face in the economic sphere are numerous, ranging from limited access to resources and opportunities to societal norms that may hinder their progress.
“The skills and knowledge you have acquired are invaluable assets that can transform your economic circumstances.
“Remember, it is not merely about learning; it’s about applying what you’ve learned in practical ways that can lead to sustainable income generation and growth.
“You are pioneers, breaking the chains of poverty and laying the groundwork for future generations of women to thrive,” she said.
Dada thanked Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his passion toward eradicating poverty in the state and making the women financially independent.
The Chairman of Eti-Osa East LCDA, Mr John Ogundare, said the empowerment of the residents was a step in the process of urbanising the community.
Ogundare urged the beneficiaries to utilise both the skills and equipment received to ensure they are financially independent.
The chairman pledged to organise empowerment programmes, on a quarterly basis, as his commitment in ensuring the economic growth of the community.
“When an individual that stays in the community is happy, definitely the community will have peace,” he said.
He expressed his commitment to the growth of the beneficiaries’ businesses by placing orders for products, and also setting up schemes to access clients.
One of the beneficiaries, Aisha Olayiwola, 19 years old, said the training was a great opportunity for her to learn how to make a living.
Olayiwola, who learned how to make cream, lotions, liquid and bar soap, said the skills acquired would help her financially when she resumes in school.
Another beneficiary, Juliana Eberechukwu, who learned make-up and headgear tying, said the equipment received would help brand her business and attract more clients. (NAN)
