Lagos govt launches gender procurement policy to empower women

By Sodiq Adelakun

The Lagos State Government has launched the Lagos State Gender Responsive Procurement Policy to promote gender equality and empower women entrepreneurs.

The policy is set to correct long-standing imbalances that have marginalized women from accessing public procurement opportunities.

Director General of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, Mr. Fatai Idowu Onafowote, on Friday, stated that the policy is a pioneering effort to create a more equitable and inclusive procurement environment.

“The policy is not just a document, but a mandate for change—a mandate to improve the internal management of our state government and to foster a more inclusive economy,” he said.

The policy will provide capacity-building programs, financial incentives, educational resources, and mentorship opportunities to enhance the abilities and market presence of women-owned businesses. The policy also mandates that all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies prioritize women-owned businesses in the awarding of contracts, with a target of at least 10% of procurement opportunities allocated to such enterprises.

Onafowote acknowledged the support of the UN Women, saying that the historic initiative wouldn’t have been possible without their collaboration. “By doing so, we are not only empowering women but also contributing to the broader socio-economic progress of Lagos State,” he added.

The benefits of this policy extend beyond the economic empowerment of women, driving broader economic growth and development within the state. This aligns perfectly with the state government’s commitment to social equity and inclusion, as well as with national and international frameworks, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.