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Tag: lagos

  • Lagos hosts procurement officers’ capacity building programme

    Lagos hosts procurement officers’ capacity building programme

    The 2024 Capacity Building Programme for procurement officers began yesterday at ‘The Zone’, Gbagada, Lagos.

    The programme with the theme: “Effective Use of Procurement Documents, Analysis and Reporting”, aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of procurement officers in the public sector.

    The event brought together procurement professionals from government agencies and parastatals, who gathered to share experience and learn best practices in procurement management.

    The Director-General of Lagos State Procurement Agency, Mr Fatai Onafowote, emphasised the importance of effective procurement management in achieving good governance and sustainable development.

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    He said the 2024 capacity building programme for procurement officers of MDAs of the state was organised to further build the capacity of procurement officers of the state for improved service delivery.

    Lagos State Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro, reminded the procurement officers that as custodians overseeing government procurement-related activities, they must ensure maintenance of transparency, manage stakeholders and work hand in hand to ensure the procurement process was used as a tool for development, rather than an impediment.

    The Director, Monitoring, Enforcement and Compliance of the agency, Mrs Bola Adeniran, said there was no doubt that the huge investment being made by the government on digitalisation of procurement processes and capacity building of personnel had continued to yield very positive results in public service delivery.

  • ‘OPS key to Lagos revenue growth’

    ‘OPS key to Lagos revenue growth’

    Managing Director, Remita Payment Services Limited (RPSL), ‘DeRemi Atanda, has called for organised private sector (OPS) support to boost Lagos state revenue.

    The call for action came during the 2024 Eko Revenue Plus Summit, held in Lagos, during which he sought for increased private-sector collaboration to unlock Lagos State’s digital economy and drive sustainable revenue growth.

    As Lagos accelerates toward becoming a hub of digital innovation and sustainable financial prosperity, the Eko Revenue Plus Summit 2024 provided a crucial platform for dialogue on unlocking new revenue streams and fostering growth.

    Speaking on a panel themed “Unlocking Lagos’ Digital Economy: Strategic Innovation, Effective Regulation, and Sustainable Revenue Growth,” Atanda shared insights on leveraging innovation and policy to create new economic opportunities for the state.

    Atanda applauded Lagos State’s efforts in developing digital public infrastructure and advocated for its liberalisation to enable greater participation from private sector players. He noted: “Thankfully, this is a government platform, where the focus is on policies, with a digital outlook. Many policies are already in place; it’s about moving them to the next level.”

     “Lagos State has set a strong foundation by promoting digital public infrastructure. However, the next step is clear: liberalising this infrastructure to create nodes for private sector players to innovate and thrive. The government is not an entrepreneur; it participates in the wealth generated by those who run businesses. The key to unlocking Lagos’ revenue potential lies in enabling private innovation while ensuring a robust regulatory framework,” he remarked.

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    Highlighting Lagos’ trailblazing lender license initiative, Atanda explained its role in expanding access to credit and fostering transparency. “Lagos created a system where lenders contribute value back to the state, turning transactions into tools for poverty alleviation. Extending such models across other sectors can unlock immense economic value while improving livelihoods,” he said.

    He joined an esteemed panel that included Hon. Olatubosun Alake, Commissioner for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Lagos State; Mr. Sam Egube, Deputy Chief of Staff, Lagos State; Mrs. Toyin Anjous-Ademuyiwa, Director General, Office of Transformation, Creativity & Innovation, Lagos State; and Mr. Kabiru Abiola, Managing Director, DigitalentsHUB. Moderated by Mrs. Bode Abifarin, Founder/CEO of Strata, the session examined Lagos’ digital transformation journey and its implications for sustainable revenue growth.

    The discussion also spotlighted digital identity and employment initiatives as transformative strategies for Lagos’ economy. Hon. Olatubosun Alake emphasised the role of technology in empowering over 400,000 SMEs through initiatives like the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund and partnerships with innovation hubs and accelerators.

     “Today, digitisation and SME empowerment are top priorities for Lagos,” Hon. Alake remarked. “Our focus on building a labour market information system and connecting employers with job seekers exemplifies how technology can address unemployment and drive economic growth.”

    Abiola emphasised the need for a robust identification system in Lagos State to distinguish between employed and unemployed citizens. He argued that such a system would enable the government to identify specific needs, target interventions effectively, and harness data intelligence to broaden the state’s tax base.

    Expanding on this, Atanda concurred, highlighting the transformative potential of digital identity systems. “The Lagos ID for everybody provides a basis for insights. The government wants to unlock new revenue streams to improve citizens’ lives, and the easiest way to achieve that is by going digital, gaining insight into data, and creating many more nodes for private sector play,” he added.

    Closing the session, Atanda underscored the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors. “To truly unlock Lagos’ digital economy, we must create policies that enable seamless private sector participation. Data integration and strategic innovation will position Lagos as a model digital economy in Africa.”

  • Lagos, Paris accelerator programme: 10 Nigerian designers to receive training, funding

    Lagos, Paris accelerator programme: 10 Nigerian designers to receive training, funding

    The Lagos x Paris Accelerator Programme has selected 10 exceptional Nigerian designers for its 2024-2025 cohort, providing them with an unparalleled opportunity to expand their horizons in France.

    This groundbreaking initiative, a collaboration between the French Embassy in Nigeria and local partners, aims to equip Nigerian designers with the skills, networks, and exposure needed to penetrate international markets while highlighting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and creativity.

    Following the success of last year’s edition, which also saw 10 designers take part, this year’s programme continues to position Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s creative economy. By fostering global partnerships, the initiative not only spotlights Nigerian fashion on the world stage but also contributes to economic growth and job creation within the country.

    Speaking on the initiative, H.E. Marc Fonbaustier, Ambassador of France to Nigeria, emphasized the synergy between Nigeria’s vibrant creativity and France’s established reputation in the fashion industry. He stated, “This partnership matches perfectly. France is a well-known country for this sector, and Nigeria is full of talent and energy in fashion. It’s a crossroad of art, creation, and economy. Employment, the takeoff of industries, transfer of competencies, and reinforcement of capabilities are key aspects we have in mind for the Lagos x Paris programme.

    “This year again, 10 designers have been selected and accompanied intensively. We tailored the assistance of France for each participant through a comprehensive assessment process to meet their specific needs.”

    The programme is part of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ “Création Africa” initiative, which supports creative industries worldwide, including design, fashion, video games, audiovisuals, and performing arts. In Nigeria, this focus has yielded a strong platform for designers to gain global visibility while strengthening the local creative economy.

    For the 2024-2025 cohort, the selected brands include Babayo, Y’Wandelag, Pepper Row, PITH, NYA, HUE by Idera, Aminda, Shem Paronelli (shoes), AABOUX (bags), and Refine (jewelry). These designers were chosen from a pool of over 100 applicants by a professional jury. The brand Aminda, based in Abuja, will travel to Lagos monthly for in-person training sessions.

    Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, expressed her enthusiasm for the programme’s impact on Nigeria’s fashion ecosystem. She noted, “We’re trying to aggregate all the people in the fashion industry—from clothing to accessories to jewelry—and put them on a global platform. It’s very important that we create a Fashion Council of Nigeria to ensure our designers gain worldwide recognition.”

    The Lagos x Paris Accelerator Programme includes a 360-degree audit and tailored training phases covering brand structuring, development, and operational strategies. The programme’s ultimate goal is to prepare Nigerian designers for global success, ensuring they not only compete but thrive in international markets.

  • Lagos, top brands sponsor 100,000 free tickets to Giwa Gardens Water Park

    Lagos, top brands sponsor 100,000 free tickets to Giwa Gardens Water Park

    In an extraordinary move to promote leisure and tourism, Lagos State, in collaboration with leading brands, is sponsoring 100,000 free tickets to Giwa Gardens Water Park, the largest water park by water volume in West Africa. 

    Located in Sangotedo, Lekki, this sprawling destination promises a world-class experience for fun seekers of all ages.

    Lagos State has set the bar high by sponsoring 1,000 all-inclusive tickets. These special tickets cover not only entry to the water park but also food and safety gear, ensuring visitors enjoy a seamless and worry-free experience. It’s a gesture that highlights the state’s commitment to promoting recreational activities and supporting family-oriented fun.

    Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Idris Aregbe, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism,Arts and Culture, emphasised the government’s unwavering commitment to promoting tourism in the state. 

    “Tourism in Lagos State will continue to flourish, offering residents and visitors opportunities to enjoy our recreational centers. 

    “Today is not just about distributing 1,000 tickets—it’s about engaging with our values, nurturing family bonds, and reminding ourselves of our Nigerian identity. 

    “This is what places like Giwa Gardens symbolize—a space where community, culture, and leisure come together.” 

     Aregbe also highlighted the importance of partnerships in tourism development, calling this initiative a prime example of the benefits of collaboration between the government and private sector.

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    Beyond Lagos State, top brands like FilmHouse Cinemas, Domino’s Pizza, FiberOne, and Tribe Lagos have stepped in to make this initiative even bigger. Together, they’ve contributed to the remaining 99,000 tickets, giving even more people the chance to experience the magic of Giwa Gardens. While these tickets cover entry, visitors will only need to pay for food, drinks, and safety gear—still an incredible deal for such a premium venue.

    This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration between the government and private sector to create opportunities for fun and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a family-friendly outing, Giwa Gardens Water Park is the perfect escape. Don’t miss this chance to make unforgettable memories at West Africa’s premier water park!

    As the largest water park by water volume in West Africa, Giwa Gardens Water Park offers unmatched attractions, from thrilling water slides and lazy rivers to family pools and splash zones. It’s the ultimate destination for adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Lekki.

  • Lagos, NDPC, NITDA, others partner on revenue generation

    Lagos, NDPC, NITDA, others partner on revenue generation

    The Lagos State government has embarked on an initiative that will require the use of technology partnerships with the Organized Private Sector (OPS), the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC), and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to enhance its revenue generation capabilities.

    This collaboration will require the use of digitisation and e-governance tools to drive economic growth while protecting citizens’ data in line with the NDPC’s regulatory framework.

    The Special Adviser to the Governor on Taxation and Revenue, Opeyemi Ogungbo disclosed this yesterday during day-two of the “Eko Revenue Plus” summit, held in Victoria Island, Lagos.

    He said the stakeholders’ collaboration demonstrates a commitment to leveraging technology and partnerships for sustainable revenue growth.

    National Commissioner and CEO of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, emphasized the importance of aligning the state’s initiatives with the national data protection law recently signed by the President. He urged the state to adhere to the established framework rather than creating separate legislation.

     “And we at the Nigerian Data Protection Commission are here, and we have to support you, and by extension, the government of Nigeria. We are ready and more than happy to support Lagos State,” he assured.

    He highlighted the agency’s ongoing efforts to protect Nigerians’ online data and raise awareness about data privacy. Expressing his enthusiasm for Lagos’ progress, Olatunji added, “We hope to take this conversation forward.”

    The Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, lauded the state for its advancements in infrastructure and e-governance. He pledged continued support from NITDA to bolster the state’s digitization efforts, acknowledging the critical role of technology in driving economic development.

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    Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Ayodele Subair, emphasized the transformative potential of collaboration between public institutions and private enterprises, adding, “The synergy between public institutions and private enterprises has the power to revolutionize how we harness resources, engage stakeholders, and create enduring value for the citizens of our great state.”

    He lauded the summit organizers for bringing together policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, and stakeholders to devise actionable solutions. “By fostering dialogue and innovation, we are collectively taking bold steps to reimagine the future of economic growth and revenue generation in Lagos State. Together, we will build a Lagos State that is not only self-sufficient but also a beacon of prosperity and innovation for others to emulate,” he said.

    Highlighting the state’s technological investments, Subair noted that these advancements simplify compliance for residents. He pointed to the Lagos State Revenue Portal and the e-tax platform as examples of innovations that streamline tax administration.

     “With a lot of great work done by the Office of the Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue, the Lagos State Revenue Portal has been created to settle all non-tax revenue, such as land administration fees, etc., as well as the e-tax platform—an end-to-end tax administration solution. This platform allows for registration, raising of assessments, payment of taxes, issuance of receipts, and generation of tax clearance certificates, all from the comfort of your homes,” he explained.

    He urged Lagos residents to fulfill their civic responsibilities by filing annual tax returns and paying their taxes, emphasizing, “This is the only way we can guarantee the development of Lagos into a true megacity through the provision of highly qualitative social services such as schools, hospitals, and first-class infrastructure.”

    Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, acknowledged the state’s substantial spending due to its growing population of over 30 million people. He highlighted the daily movement of livestock and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases as unique challenges requiring strategic planning.

    He revealed that Lagos has a 30-year development plan anchored on infrastructure, public-private partnerships (PPP), medical diagnostics, digital platforms, alternative financing access, and human resources for health.

     “It is only through digitalization that we can really move to the next stage of medical ingenuity and competition around the world,” he remarked.

    Abayomi also highlighted the state’s leadership in data protection compliance. “We have gone through personal data protection compliance. We were one of the first agencies to do that,” he said.

  • Lagos, stakeholders discuss new ways to boost tax revenue

    Lagos, stakeholders discuss new ways to boost tax revenue

    The Lagos State Government, critical stakeholders in tax collection and administration commenced discussions on ways to unlock new revenue streams for the state.

    Speaking on Tuesday at Eko Revenue Plus Summit 2024 in Lagos, the Special Adviser to Lagos Governor on Taxation and Revenue, Opeyemi Ogungbo, said the summit was conceptualised to provoke initiatives and innovations that will boost revenue drive and support state infrastructural projects.

    He said the summit theme: “Unlocking New Revenue Streams for Lagos State” was designed to begin the journey of building on our traditional way of generating revenue into a realm where we can achieve exponential growth in our resources. 

    He said the summit will unlock new revenue streams for the state.

    He said: “We have designed and reviewed our revenue processes with the goal of streamlining our processes and optimizing operational system to improve ease of doing business in revenue value-chain to serve both individual and corporate organisations better.”

    He added: “With the support of Mr. Governor, we have successfully built and deployed an artificial intelligence tool that automates all inquiries to support payers and provide real-time information to stakeholders. As a state, we have successfully adopted the use of Unique Payer ID to ensure compliance and significantly improve our data management”.

    Ogungbo said that digital economy, informal sector, secular economy, property and energy are key areas of discourse during the summit. 

    He said that unlocking new revenue streams for the legal state is not a task that can be accomplished by any one sector or individually alone.

    He said the summit is testament to Lagos’ shared vision of fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth in revenue systems.

    Lagos Commissioner of Finance, Abayomi Oluyomi, said the ongoing tax reform bills currently in the National Assembly will form a major point of discussion at the summit.

    He said the tax bills will address several aspects of taxation, including tax administration, tax protection among others.

    “So, as we go into this deliberation, let us be aware of these tax bills, which in essence is to harmonize the tax system in Nigeria,” Oluyomi said.

    He said the robustness of internet-generated revenue championed and delivered by the state Governor has produced good results.

    He said the Lagos financial management strategy was aligned with its commitment to sustainability, sustainable financing and safeguarding the well-being of future generations.

    “That is, prioritizing projects that promote economic inclusivity, social development, and environmental justice. This revenue summit was designed to ensure that every stakeholder sees the value of contributing to our collective success,” he said.

    Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Finance Incorporated, Armstrong Takang, who represented Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the economy, Wale Edun, urged Lagos state to lead the conversation on growing the economy and techniques of ensuring that there is a higher level of tax compliance and increasing the revenues.

    “In the sense that whatever happens in Lagos symbolizes what happens in the Nigerian economy. And the lessons that are learned in that process are lessons that other states can borrow from. I do know, by virtue of what I do, that when I consult a lot of governors and a lot of sub-nationals, they always talk about the fact that we want to do what Lagos is doing,” he said.

    He challenged Lagos to not just be a large player in terms of GDP, but also in terms of the resources that are being put at the disposal of the people of state.

    He urged the state to recognize that it has a key role in enabling the activities of private sectors which are meant to drive economic growth.

    In his response, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the state government’s ability to deliver on infrastructure and other developmental projects depends on its ability to earn more.

    “If we can earn more, we can actually implement a lot more. We want to be measured by the percentage of the business, commercial, economic activity of the country that truly resides in Lagos,” he said.

    He said although Lagos generates between 40 to 50 per cent of Value Added Tax (VAT) collectible in the federation, but at the end of the day, it gets less than 10 per cent of it.

    He said the summit provides ample opportunity for stakeholders to ventilate ideas and suggestions on how best to optimize revenue generation in the state.

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    He said that Lagos contributes between 25 to 35 per cent to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product. He said that the state budget is driven by the capacity of revenue the state can generate.

    Sanwo-Olu said the Lagos state revenue should be between N6.5 to N7 trillion, adding that the state’s ability to do more depends on the level of revenue at its disposal.

    He said that Lagos remains far-ahead of other states within the Federation even as there is still more work to be done.

  • Anchor humanitarian care and social medical initiative supports 120 nursing mothers in Lagos

    Anchor humanitarian care and social medical initiative supports 120 nursing mothers in Lagos

    No fewer than 120 nursing mothers in Lagos received valuable insights, advice and baby clothes valued at  $25 each recently. 

    The gesture was courtesy Anchor Humanitarian care and social medical initiative at Ipaja-Ayobo LCDA Health Centre and Ejigbo LCDA Health Centre.

    The team was led Dr. Bolarinwa Omotosho, a peace ambassador and medical social worker.

     The outreach programmes tagged Postnatal Mental Health Awareness Campaign, was to raise awareness and provide palliative care to mothers of newborn babies

    The Ipaja-Ayobo outreach, on November 14, and Ejigbo Health Centre outreach, on November 19, demonstrated Anchor Humanitarian Care & Social Medical Initiative’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities. Sixty participants received quality baby clothes at both Health Centres each.

    Apex Nurse Ajayi and Hon. Sola Dada expressed gratitude to the team on behalf of Ipaja-Ayobo LCDA Chairman, Hon. Chief Mrs. Bola Sobowale. 

    Mrs. Gbolahan, Apex Nurse at Ejigbo Health Centre, commended Anchor Humanitarian Care & Social Media Initiative on behalf of the HMO Dr. Ibrahim Yetunde and Hon. Monsurudeen Oloyede Bello, the Executive Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA

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    Six of the beneficiaries were in Islamic purdah and one mother was blessed with twins. Omotosho, a multifaceted professional, combining expertise in youth culture, social work, leadership, theology, and conflict education, said: “This outreach program demonstrates our commitment to supporting vulnerable communities. We’re grateful for the support of our partners and donors, enabling us to make a tangible difference in lives as we approach the Christmas period.” 

    He appealed to others to support and do more. The outreach programmes were made possible by a kind-hearted member of Omotosho & Anchor Friends, who encouraged her daughter to donate 210 new baby clothes. 

    Anchor Humanitarian Care & Social Medical Initiative announced it would replace similar outreaches in December at Makoko, Lagos.

  • Housing: Lagos warns contractors to deliver or risk contracts termination

    Housing: Lagos warns contractors to deliver or risk contracts termination

    The contractors handling various housing projects on behalf of Lagos State Government have been warned to deliver all aspects of the projects as scheduled in all contract agreements or have contracts terminated and re-awarded to those who will deliver on time.

    Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, who had earlier expressed his displeasure and dissatisfaction on the level of work done during a routine inspection to Sangotedo Housing Estate Eti Osa phase 2, lamented that the project is yet to get to the expected level despite th state government’s commitment and support to the contractors.

    The Commissioner repeated his dissatisfaction after an evaluation of the projects, formal briefs from project supervisors and a follow up meeting between the Ministry’s technical team and the project contractors at the Ministry’s Conference Room at the Secretariat. Alausa.

    Akinderu-Fatai  frowned at the slow pace of work on project sites visited and directed the affected contractors to increase the speed of work or be excused from the sites.

    He expressed the dissatisfaction of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on the inability of most of the contractors to adhere to the agreed time of delivery on various aspect of the projects.

    ‘’Shifting of completion period by contractors will no longer be tolerated because we will not allow you to slow us down,’’ he said.

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    He reiterated the pressure on government to deliver on all its promises especially in the housing sector.

    Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Abdulhafis Toriola, enjoined the contractors to ensure they deliver every facet of the project as scheduled without compromising quality.

    The project review meeting was attended by heads of technical departments and supervising officials.

    The Sangotedo Housing Estates phase 2 after completion will comprise of about 43 blocks and is expected to add over 500 home units to the existing stock. The first phase of the project consisting of 744 home units was delivered and commissioned by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in December 2021.

    The Lagos State Ministry of Housing aside the Sangotedo scheme 2 project is concurrently working on four other housing estates at Ajara, Badagry, Ibeshe scheme 2 Ikorodu, Ita Marun, Epe and Egan Igando cluster 2 and 3. All these projects are expected to be delivered in the life of this administration.

  • Lagos, Glovo partner on digital gender gap

    Lagos, Glovo partner on digital gender gap

    Lagos State government, Glovo and She Code Africa have partnered to empower women with digital skills to promote gender inclusivity in the tech ecosystem.

    Glovo, which organized its Women in Tech Bootcamp Programme in Lagos said it recognized that the challenges women face in tech go beyond technical skills, adding that they include barriers rooted in access and opportunity.

    The event brought together industry leaders, government officials, European diplomatic community in Nigeria and tech advocates to reinforce Glovo’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in the tech industry and making a lasting impact in the tech ecosystem.

    Speaking on the occasion, General Manager of Glovo Nigeria, Lamide Akinola, highlighted the company’s commitment to advancing gender diversity and creating pathways for women to thrive in tech-driven roles.

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    She said: “At Glovo, we believe in a future where women are integral drivers of innovation, especially in tech. We recognize that the challenges women face in tech go beyond technical skills; they include barriers rooted in access, opportunity, and sometimes, the confidence to take bold steps. Today’s event is our way of saying – We see those barriers, and we’re here to help break them down with you.

    As the leading multicategory app with a vision to build the largest online marketplace to give everyone access to anything in their city within minutes; we believe that empowering women with digital skills is essential—not only for driving innovation and growth but for building communities where everyone can thrive.”

    In her keynote, Lagos State Commissioner Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, underscored the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP) in unlocking opportunities for women.

    She said: “Today’s gathering signifies more than just advocacy; it is a rallying cry to reimagine the future of innovation by ensuring no one is left behind, particularly women, who represent half of our population. Studies reveal that bridging the gender gap in technology could add up to $12 trillion to global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2025.

    “This staggering figure underscores that empowering women in tech is not just a moral imperative; it is an economic necessity. In Lagos State, a hub of innovation and economic activity, we understand that inclusion is a catalyst for sustainable growth. However, achieving this requires intentional strategies and robust partnerships.

    “We are excited to work with Glovo and She Code Africa to deliver a program that opens doors for women to excel, innovate, and lead. This initiative also aligns with the mandate of our Ministry to foster innovation, encourage entrepreneurship, and support the development of skilled talent across industries, including technology.”

    There was also a panel discussion on: “Breaking Barriers in Tech & Beyond” featuring inspiring women leaders, including Akinola, Founder, She Code Africa, Ada Oyom; Economic Policy Adviser, Consulate General of the Netherlands, Lagos, Sonia Odije-Fajusigbe; Director, Business Development, Ellington Bank UAE, Wendy Okam; Founder, RISE Networks, Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji ; and Head, Funding and Partnerships, LSETF, Mojirayo Folarin-Lawal. The panelists shared insights on overcoming challenges, fostering community support, and building sustainable careers, with a focus on equipping more women to drive innovation across sectors.

    Oyom shared her view for partnership. “As the technical partners of the Women in Tech Bootcamp Program, we are thrilled to collaborate with Glovo and the Lagos State Government to run this 12 week intensive program and create impactful pathways for women in tech. Glovo’s commitment to gender diversity is commendable, and we call on like-minded companies to invest in initiatives that empower the future of women in technology. Together, we can build a more inclusive and innovative tech ecosystem.”

    A virtual address by Glovo’s Chief Technology Officer, Shiro Theuri, underscored the brand’s steadfast commitment to diversity in technology. As a woman leading Glovo’s technological vision, Shiro’s role exemplifies the possibilities and impact of fostering inclusive environments. Her address highlighted Glovo’s dedication to empowering women in leadership roles and building diverse teams that drive innovation and success in the tech industry. Through her inspiring journey, Shiro showcased how Glovo’s focus on diversity is not just an ideal but a lived reality, paving the way for a more inclusive future in technology. This dedication to “walking the talk” is evident in Glovo’s strategic efforts to create opportunities for women across its operations, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where it aims to set a new standard for inclusivity in tech.

    Glovo’s Women in Tech initiative aims to ignite interest in tech careers by highlighting the flexibility, creativity, and impact of a modern tech environment. To achieve this, Glovo focuses on three pillars: facilitating bootcamps for women without technical backgrounds to prepare them for junior tech roles; breaking gender stereotypes through community engagement, such as office visits that inspire young girls with female role models; and acting as a career catalyst by offering internships to top bootcamp participants. A major highlight was the announcement of a mentorship program for the participants of the Women in Tech Bootcamp, facilitated by Glovo and She Code Africa. This initiative ensures that, even after completing the bootcamp, participants will have ongoing access to mentorship, supporting their journey toward careers in technology. This mentorship aligns closely with the broader goals of Glovo’s Women in Tech initiative across the globe, which aims to make an impact by empowering the next generation of women in tech.

    Regional Head Government & Public Relations, Sub-Saharan Africa at Glovo, Chidera Akwuba, highlighted the transformative impact of Glovo’s Women in Tech initiative.

    “When you empower a woman, you empower a community, a nation, and ultimately, the world. This initiative is made possible through the invaluable partnership of the Lagos State government via the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, and our technical partner She Code Africa. Together, we are building an inclusive tech ecosystem that values diversity, fosters innovation, and inspires the next generation of female leaders to drive meaningful change in technology and beyond,” she said.

    The ceremony concluded with special remarks from Global Director Government Relations, Glovo, William Benthall; Executive Secretary of Eurocham, Laura Mensah-Oniru; and Director of Strategy, Funding, and Stakeholder Management at the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), Sherifah Balogun, who emphasized the importance of a supportive digital ecosystem for women and how private-public sector partnerships can be structured to drive sustainable economic growth, foster innovation, and bridge the gender gap in technology.

    Through programs like the Women in Tech Bootcamp initiative, Glovo, in partnership with Lagos State government remains dedicated to creating pathways for women in tech and building an ecosystem where women’s contributions drive meaningful change.

  • RCCG parish organises food bank in Lagos

    RCCG parish organises food bank in Lagos

    As part of efforts to bring succour and respite to the members of Redeemed Christian Church of God(RCCG) Living Seed Church Omole, the church has embarked on hand over of foodstuff to members every first Sunday and subsequent Wednesdays of the month.

    Under the leadership of Pastor Adeola Abolaji, the initiative is to provide members with basic and essential foodstuff amidst rising food costs.

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    Termed “Food Bank”, the intervention is is part of the Christian Social Responsibility projects of the church among many other important initiatives.