The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has wrapped up another impactful phase of its Life Skill Economic Empowerment Programme (LEEP), reinforcing its commitment to grassroots entrepreneurship and inclusive economic development. The programme, which took place in Agbowa-Ikosi, Ikorodu, culminated in a colourful closing ceremony on August 1, 2025, where over 250 beneficiaries—mainly women, youths, and persons living with disabilities were celebrated.
Spearheaded by Honourable Commissioner Cecilia Bolaji Dada, LEEP delivered a four-week intensive training across a range of vocational skills including catering, hairdressing, fashion design, soap making, tie & dye, and other micro-enterprise crafts. Each participant received business startup kits to launch their ventures immediately, symbolising the state’s commitment to practical empowerment beyond training.
In her remarks, Hon. Bolaji Dada commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his continued investment in programmes that target poverty reduction and economic inclusion. She described the event not just as a graduation but as the birth of hundreds of new business owners who are now equipped to impact their homes and communities.
“We are not just marking the end of a training session today, but celebrating the beginning of new business ventures that will uplift families and communities,” she said. She also noted that underserved communities such as Ikosi Ejirin, Owu-Ikosi, and Agbowa-Ikosi have been intentionally included to ensure no one is left behind.
The Commissioner emphasized that LEEP is part of a continuous statewide intervention designed to foster financial independence and self-employment. Similar programmes, she noted, have already reached various IBILE divisions including Alimosho, Agege, Ikeja, and Eti-Osa.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of WAPA, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, Mrs. Funke Shyllon reiterated the state government’s resolve to use small-scale enterprise support as a key driver of economic growth and poverty alleviation. She encouraged beneficiaries to apply the knowledge and tools provided to build thriving, sustainable businesses.
The event also featured an exhibition of products created by the trainees, showcasing their progress and potential. Community leaders, including HRM Oba Obayomi Nelson Ogunlari, the Olowu of Owu-Ikosi Kingdom, delivered goodwill messages applauding the government’s effort in uplifting the grassroots economy.
Certificates and business starter kits were officially presented to the graduates, marking their entry into Lagos’ growing community of empowered micro-entrepreneurs.
The LEEP programme continues to serve as a catalyst for economic transformation across Lagos, in line with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision for an inclusive and resilient economy. By investing in skills and entrepreneurship, the state government is not only reducing poverty but also building a generation of financially independent and productive citizens.
