Guinness Nigeria has taken a significant step towards empowering women entrepreneurs by training and providing resources to 250 women across various communities in Ikorodu, Lagos. This initiative is part of the company’s Plan W Programme, which aims to foster economic prosperity and entrepreneurial success.
The recent training, marking the second cohort of the program, underscores Guinness Nigeria’s dedication to uplifting communities. Since the Plan W Programme’s inception in 2019, it has empowered a total of 1,400 women nationwide. This sustained effort is designed to drive economic growth and support entrepreneurial ventures across Nigeria.
Rotimi Odusola, Guinness Nigeria’s Corporate Relations Director, highlighted the importance of this initiative. “Guinness Nigeria recognizes that women are an important part of our community. We’ve empowered 1,400 women so far and encourage all beneficiaries to sustain their businesses and make the best of this opportunity,” he said. Odusola also emphasized the program’s inclusive approach, noting that 10 percent of the beneficiaries are People Living with Disabilities (PLWDs).
The initiative aligns with Guinness Nigeria’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, which focuses on inclusion and diversity. “By investing in women, we improve employability, raise living standards, and boost the country’s GDP,” Odusola added. “Together, we are building a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.”
Bolaji Cecilia Dada, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, who represented the Governor of Lagos State, praised Guinness Nigeria for its commitment to economic empowerment. “By investing in women, you ensure that growth and prosperity are shared equitably. Empowerment is a catalyst for change,” she stated.
Maria Kazeem, Program Manager for the Nigeria Association of the Blind and a representative of Sightsavers, Nigeria, expressed gratitude to Guinness Nigeria for empowering women living with disabilities. She emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency for these women.
Community stakeholders, including Busola Elizabeth Isikalu, the Iyaloja-General of Ikorodu, also lauded Guinness Nigeria’s efforts. Isikalu urged continued support for the company’s initiatives to empower women and contribute to Nigeria’s economic prosperity.
This ongoing commitment from Guinness Nigeria reflects a broader vision of fostering an inclusive and thriving economy through targeted empowerment and support programs.
