In a significant move, the Lagos State Government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced plans to join forces with the United Nations Women to advance affirmative procurement for businesses led and owned by women in Lagos State. This announcement was made during a policy dialogue organized by the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency in partnership with UN Women.
The Governor, represented by the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Yomi Oluyomi, expressed the administration’s readiness to collaborate with UN Women in equipping more women with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the procurement landscape successfully. He emphasized that training programs and workshops will play a vital role in this effort, ensuring continued support for women entrepreneurs, including access to funding through the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund.
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted that their support for women-owned and women-led businesses is not only an ethical choice but also aligned with their vision of positioning Lagos State as an economic powerhouse. He further committed to upholding accountability and transparency standards.
The Governor also emphasized their commitment to adhering to national and international mandates advocating for gender equality in public procurement.
Director-General of Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, Mr. Fatai Onafowote, noted that the event marks the culmination of a partnership that began in 2022 when UN Women expressed interest in collaborating with the agency to empower women economically through affirmative procurement. This collaboration signifies a crucial step towards bolstering women’s participation in the business sector, driving economic growth and inclusivity.
