The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs through targeted initiatives designed to foster financial independence and business sustainability.
At an empowerment programme held in Lagos on Thursday, stakeholders from government, business, and local communities highlighted the importance of supporting female entrepreneurs to drive economic growth and reduce poverty.
Delivering the keynote address, the founder of FreshOla Organics, Adesola Jimmy-Eboma, emphasised the role of women in shaping Nigeria’s economic future.
She noted that many female entrepreneurs face challenges such as access to funding, market penetration, and business management skills, adding that government intervention is crucial in bridging these gaps.
“Women are at the forefront of economic activities, yet many struggle due to limited access to resources. The Lagos State Government’s commitment to empowering women is commendable, as it provides a platform for us to grow, scale our businesses, and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” Jimmy-Eboma said.
She further urged beneficiaries of the empowerment scheme to leverage the training, grants, and networking opportunities provided to build sustainable enterprises that would stand the test of time.
Also, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Hauwa Adeeyo, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to fostering an enabling environment for women-owned businesses.
“The administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains intentional about ensuring women have access to economic opportunities. Through various empowerment programmes, skill acquisition initiatives, and financial support. We are equipping women with the tools they need to become successful entrepreneurs,” Adeeyo said.
She noted that the government had launched several interventions aimed at reducing poverty among women, adding that financial inclusion and cooperative models were being strengthened to facilitate access to capital.
On her part, the chairman of the Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area, Rekiah Hassan, underscored the importance of local government involvement in women’s economic empowerment.
“At the grassroots level, we see firsthand how empowering women translates into stronger families, better education for children, and overall community development. That is why we are fully supporting these initiatives to ensure that every woman in Lagos has the opportunity to thrive,” Hassan stated.
She further urged corporate organisations and financial institutions to collaborate with the government in expanding financial access for female entrepreneurs, stressing that economic growth would be accelerated when women-owned businesses are adequately supported.
The PUNCH reported that the Lagos State Government has concluded plans to empower women entrepreneurs in digital and financial growth strategies to commemorate International Women’s Day 2025.
