Lagos, June 1, 2026 — The Lagos State Government has equipped 5,339 residents with business tools while 5,310 others have completed training at its free skills acquisition centres within the past year, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce poverty and promote self-reliance.
The development was announced on Monday by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing marking the second year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term.
Dada explained that the initiative, driven by the ministry, reflects the administration’s focus on job creation, entrepreneurship development and poverty reduction across the state.
She noted that the government continues to invest in human capital through 19 skills acquisition centres spread across Lagos’ five divisions, as well as the Women Development Centre in Agege.
According to her, 5,310 trainees completed vocational programmes covering fashion design, catering, cosmetology, barbing, ICT, welding, furniture making, photography, textile production and other trades.
She added that many of the graduates have gone on to establish their own businesses and employ others, contributing to the local economy.
“These centres are not only providing training but are reshaping lives by producing entrepreneurs who are creating jobs and driving economic growth in Lagos State,” she said.
Dada further disclosed that beneficiaries also received support under the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI), through which 5,339 individuals were provided with tools and equipment to start or expand their businesses.
She revealed that a significant proportion of those empowered under the scheme were former trainees of the state’s skills centres.
“MESI ensures that skills acquired are converted into sustainable livelihoods, enabling residents to become financially independent and economically stable,” she said.
The commissioner also highlighted efforts to promote digital literacy among small business owners, artisans and traders.
She said 600 participants were given Android phones after completing a three-day training on digital marketing and e-commerce, where they were taught online branding, social media engagement and customer outreach strategies to improve competitiveness in the digital space.