Lagos unveils policy roadmap to boost women empowerment
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday unveiled the Lagos State Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy Roadmap, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to dismantling the systemic barriers preventing women from realising their full potential.
The WEE Policy Roadmap, launched at Muson Centre in Lagos, was developed by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation as a strategic framework aimed at tackling the structural challenges faced by women across the state.
Addressing attendees, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the initiative as a tangible demonstration of his government’s dedication to gender equity and inclusive economic growth. He pledged that the roadmap would become an active instrument of transformation, not a mere document.
He assured that his administration would continue working with state ministries, development partners, private sector players and civil society groups to guarantee the policy’s effective implementation.
“The Lagos State WEE Policy Roadmap is a strategic and forward-looking framework that addresses systemic challenges faced by women. It aligns with our state’s development agenda, national policy frameworks and global commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals.
“The process was driven by wide stakeholder engagement. From government agencies to non-governmental organisations, private sector actors, community leaders and women’s groups, including women with disabilities, no voice was excluded.
“This roadmap is not just a document; it is a strategic tool for unlocking the full potential of the women of Lagos State. Economic empowerment uplifts not only households but strengthens communities, expands the economy and secures a prosperous future for generations to come.
“I call on all stakeholders to come together with purpose and conviction. Through meaningful collaboration, we will shape a Lagos where every woman is actively supported to reach her full potential,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that the roadmap focuses on harnessing opportunities in agriculture, entrepreneurship, the traditional labour market, emerging industries and education.
Plans include expanding women’s access to digital tools, e-commerce platforms and targeted financing in agribusiness; developing gender-friendly financial services and mentorship networks for entrepreneurs; improving working conditions and enforcing labour laws in the labour market; and incentivising companies in STEM and digital technology to employ and train women. He also mentioned scholarships, flexible learning and vocational training in high-growth sectors such as healthcare, renewable energy and ICT.
Lagos State First Lady, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, represented by Mrs Oluremi Hamzat, called the roadmap a bold step towards addressing the challenges women face in Nigeria. She emphasised the importance of full implementation and encouraged women to remain focused.
Minister of Women Affairs, Iman Sulaiman-Ibrahim, represented by Mrs Agnes Abraham, described Lagos as a beacon of diversity and inclusivity and called for increased budget allocation for women’s empowerment.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs Bolaji Dada, said the roadmap signifies a shared determination to expand opportunities and break down gender stereotypes that hinder women’s participation in high-growth industries.
She noted that the policy was shaped over 12 months of stakeholder consultations to ensure it reflects the realities of all women in Lagos, including market leaders, professionals and women living with disabilities.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Dr Oreoluwa Finnih, praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for promoting inclusion and social protection and called for collaboration to guarantee full implementation.
Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Women Affairs, Hon. Omolara Oyekan-Olumegbon, pledged legislative backing for the roadmap, while UN Women Country Representative Beatrice Eyong stressed that economic empowerment is the gateway to real empowerment.
“When women are empowered, they can exceed expectations. This roadmap goes beyond a policy declaration; it represents a Lagos where every woman and girl can thrive,” Eyong said.