The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, WAPA has concluded another impactful round of its Life Skill Economic Empowerment Programme,LEEP, a four-week short-term training initiative aimed at equipping residents, particularly women and vulnerable groups with practical, income-generating skills for self-sufficiency and economic independence.
At the graduation ceremony held across several communities in the Ikosi-Ejirin in Agbowa, Honourable Commissioner for WAPA, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, applauded the resilience of the participants and reaffirmed the State’s commitment to inclusive empowerment.
“Today is a day of celebration not just for the Ministry, but for every beneficiary seated here who has successfully completed this impactful training journey,” she said. “You have not just received knowledge; you have gained a lifelong asset.”
Hon. Dada expressed gratitude to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his unwavering commitment to grassroots empowerment and poverty alleviation through sustainable, people-oriented programmes.
“Today marks the beginning of new possibilities for our latest beneficiaries from Ikosi Ejirin Centre, Owu-Ikosi, Ajeregun, Agbowa-Ikosi, Ado, Otta-Ikosi, Odo-Ayandelu especially persons living with disabilities. Thanks to the generous support of Mr. Governor, over 250 participants will walk away with start-up packs to immediately begin their entrepreneurial journey,” she stated.
According to her, the LEEP initiative is part of a broader state-wide effort to reduce unemployment, foster financial independence, and promote inclusive economic growth among women and youth.
Hon Bolaji Dada stated that, “In the past, We have taken this training to various locations across IBILE division and we have trained residents in Parafa community Ikorodu, Meiran community Alimosho, Women Development Centre, Agege, Parents of out of school children at SUBEB, Ikeja and residents of Eti-Osa East, LCDA”.
The Honourable Commissioner also encouraged the graduating participants to remain focused, consistent, and to make good use of the skills and startup packs provided to them.
In her closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary MWAPA, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo who represented by Director of Women Affairs, Mrs. Funke Shyllon thanked the Governor for supporting women across Lagos State, she thanked the Honorable Commissioner for her tireless efforts and Director’s role in ensuring the success of this program.
She added, “Economic empowerment remains one of the strongest pillars for poverty alleviation, and with continued support from the government, we are confident that lives and communities will be transformed.”
Also speaking, the Olowu of Owu-Ikosi Kingdom, Oba Obayomi Ogunlari, praised Governor Sanwo-Olu and Commissioner Dada for delivering inclusive governance that touches every corner of the State. He urged the beneficiaries to apply their new skills productively, not just for personal advancement, but also for the growth of their communities and Lagos State at large.
The event featured an exhibition of products made by the trainees and the official presentation of certificates and starter packs to the beneficiaries.
The LEEP programme continues to serve as a beacon of hope for residents in underserved areas, aligning with the vision of the Sanwo-Olu administration to build a more resilient and economically vibrant Lagos.
