By Sodiq Adelakun

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has disclosed that his administration has invested over N8.4 billion to support more than 12,000 indigent residents in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) over the past four years.

The governor made this revelation on Tuesday during the 2025 Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI) for vulnerable and indigent residents of the state, held at the Blue Roof, Ikeja, Lagos.

The event, which saw over 1,700 residents benefit from the empowerment programme, is part of the state government’s efforts to alleviate poverty and promote economic development.

Sanwo-Olu explained that the initiative is a key component of his administration’s mission to empower women and combat poverty through the development of micro-enterprises.

“I envision a Lagos where every woman, every young person, and every aspiring entrepreneur has the tools, resources, and confidence they need to turn their dreams into successful businesses, with the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative, organized by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, we’re taking bold strides to make that vision a reality,”he said.

The governor noted that the initiative has been made possible through the additional funding allocated to the programme, which has enabled the government to increase the number of beneficiaries.

He urged the beneficiaries to use the equipment collected wisely, advising them to grow their businesses, create jobs, and support others.

“Use it to grow your businesses, create jobs, and support others, youlur success is a vital part of our collective progress in our beloved state. Let this be the beginning of something great. As you rise, remember to lift others along the way. When you find success, share your knowledge with those around you. And as you grow, don’t forget to give back to the communities that nurtured you,”he added.

Earlier, The First Lady of Lagos State, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in empowering the vulnerable.

She noted that the initiative has transformed many lives and is aimed at addressing socioeconomic disparities in the state.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, stated that the initiative has directly empowered thousands of indigent Lagosians, providing them with equipment, training, and start-up capital.

She urged the beneficiaries to harness the resources responsibly, invest wisely, and mentor others in their communities.