Lagos State Government Targets 5,000 Residents for Livelihood Support Programme
The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), is excited to assist over 5,000 vulnerable residents across the state with its empowerment initiative. This initiative falls under the Federal Government’s Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus, in partnership with the Lagos Cares DL 1.3, themed “Training for Livelihood Support Programme.”
This empowering initiative aims to provide economic relief to individuals, particularly women and youth engaged in small businesses across the state. Mrs. Toyin Salami, Head of Disbursement Link Indicator (DL.1.3) at WAPA, made the announcement during a recent two-day training session in Lagos. She noted that the program is designed to support economically active yet struggling individuals through training and financial grants to enhance their business activities.
Beneficiaries are selected from the state’s social register, which includes over 25,000 vulnerable residents, with a focus on those already active in business. “The beneficiaries will receive training to further develop their businesses, and a one-time grant will be disbursed directly into their bank accounts to support growth,” Mrs. Salami explained.
The program has already impacted over 2,500 individuals in its initial phases, and plans are in place to reach the target of 5,000 beneficiaries. More than 1,200 individuals received training recently, with further expansions planned for additional communities.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Oluyemi Kalesanwo, encouraged beneficiaries to take the training seriously, highlighting the skills being taught, including bookkeeping, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship skills. This training aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Developmental Agenda and reflects the state’s commitment to empowering vulnerable residents amidst ongoing economic challenges.
Mrs. Saudat Salami, a facilitator at the Coker-Aguda Local Council Development Area, underscored the importance of entrepreneurship skills for small business success, emphasizing that effective management is crucial for sustainability. “Running a business requires more than just skills; it requires proper understanding of operations,” she stated.
Participant Mrs. Arike Adeyemi, a caterer, shared her positive experience, noting she learned valuable skills on leveraging social media for business promotion and the importance of tracking expenses effectively.
