Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently unveiled the 2024 edition of the Micro-Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI), aimed at uplifting vulnerable businesses, women, and indigent youths by providing essential tools and support for business growth. The event, held in Ikeja, benefitted over 1,500 individuals through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA).
Sanwo-Olu noted that MESI has assisted over 5,000 people in the past five years, focusing on socio-economically disadvantaged women, indigent youths, and graduates of skills acquisition centers. The beneficiaries received a range of equipment, including tiling machines, shawarma grills, sewing machines, hairdressing tools, and generators.
Expressing his satisfaction with the initiative, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the administration’s commitment to creating an inclusive and prosperous Lagos. He urged beneficiaries to make the most of the equipment provided to achieve economic independence and to represent the state positively.
In her remarks, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, underscored the importance of social protection for vulnerable groups across Lagos. She announced the distribution of over 200 PoS machines, startup funds, and free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registrations. Dada also highlighted recent training for 300 women in catfish farming, with 100 receiving free feed, and mentioned N50,000 cash grants for 50 Makoko fish sellers.
Dada revealed that MESI has empowered over 10,000 individuals in the past five years, providing various economic tools and gadgets.
The 2024 MESI program marks a significant advancement in Lagos State’s efforts to boost economic growth and resilience. By supporting micro-enterprises, the initiative contributes to job creation and a thriving local economy, underscoring Lagos State’s commitment to a more prosperous and inclusive future.
