Lagos Govt Empowers 20,000 Girls, Women For Sustainable Economic Growth

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said that his administration’s initiatives and interventions aimed at ensuring that no one is left behind in the state culminated in the empowerment of 20,000 girls and women.

He said, “the Leave No One Behind” Initiative has successfully equipped over 20,000 girls and women with essential circular economy skills and has supported 1,000 individuals, created 50 employment opportunities and collected 200 kg of recyclable waste daily.”

Speaking at the closeout event held at the Correctional Centre for Girls in Idi-Araba, Governor Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Hon. Ope George, asserted that the initiative has become a ground-breaking initiative that has become a catalyst for change in Lagos.

He remarked that the state embarked on the mission with a clear vision to ensure inclusivity, promote wealth creation, enhance the living standards and foster sustainability for marginalised communities.

“Today, we celebrate the realisation of the vision that consolidates our promise to intensify focus on vulnerable groups in our State ensuring that every individual, irrespective of their background, gender, circumstances, or social status gets access to opportunity, support, and enjoys the benefits of good governance,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu added that, “Our world is changing rapidly, and with it, the dynamics of our economies and societies. The circular economy framework is not just an alternative but a necessity for sustainable development. By focusing on reducing waste, reusing resources, and recycling materials, we create a system that benefits both the environment and the economy. This initiative has equipped our participants with the skills to thrive in such a system, turning challenges into opportunities and waste into wealth.

In his address, the state commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende said, “By fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, the circular economy provides opportunities for our young people to continue to engage in meaningful work just as the skills acquired through this initiative will enable them to create and manage sustainable businesses, thus driving economic growth in Lagos State.”

He added that the impact of the initiative goes beyond numbers, saying the initiative is starting at the correctional centre for girls that will help them upscale and giving them the opportunity for job creation that will benefit the economy at large.

“Each of the 20,000 girls and women who have girls and women who participated in this programme represents a story of resilience, ambition, and transformation.

“They have learned to harness their potential, to see value where others see waste, and to create sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their communities,” he stated.