The Lagos State Government has taken its financial inclusion programme to the Papa Agege community to support women with financial literacy and access to formal banking services.

Speaking at a workshop in Lagos, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Investment, Dr Oreoluwa Finnih-Awokoya, reaffirmed the administration 92s commitment to expanding economic participation among vulnerable groups. She was represented by Mrs Odunmbaku Abimbola, Principal Admin and HR Officer at the SDGs Office.

93 This initiative has been a remarkable one. We have seen many women come forward to join our awareness sessions,\’94 she said.

93 We are here to promote financial literacy and inclusion in communities that are often overlooked. Our goal is to ensure that these women have access to a wide range of digital and financial services.

93 We need to build something lasting. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed that no one should be left behind. That is why we have partnered with financial experts who will teach them how to grow, save, and invest their money,\’94 she added.

The workshop, under the Office of SDGs, was organised in collaboration with Paycom (Opay), Cowrywise, Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA), and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

The event included practical sessions where participants registered for bank accounts, with Opay issuing ATM cards instantly.

9 Economic empowerment enables women to take charge of many aspects of their lives,\’94 Finnih-Awokoya noted. 93 Opay is here to help open bank accounts, offering immediate ATM cards.\’94

Community leaders and participants welcomed the initiative.

Mr Abiodun Mosuro, Chairman of Papa Ashafa East Community Development Association (CDA), said the programme would reduce household pressures and encourage better financial management.

\93This will educate women and ease our burdens as men. When our women manage their finances well, they can take care of certain bills. We hope to see more of these programmes to help our community members organise their funds,\’94 he said.

For several attendees, the workshop marked their first encounter with formal banking.

Mrs Mariam Sherifdeen, a trader, said:  ’93I\’92m happy this programme came here. I rarely have time to go out because of my business, so having it brought to my doorstep is a relief. ’94

Another participant, Juliet Kenneth, expressed gratitude and hope:  ’93I have never owned a bank account. I am excited to finally have one.’94

The financial inclusion initiative forms part of Lagos State\’92s broader strategy to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by advancing inclusive policies and digital access to the economy.