The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Sanwo-Olu

  • Tinubu, Makinde, Sanwo-Olu, eulogise Afenifere leader Fasoranti at 99

    Tinubu, Makinde, Sanwo-Olu, eulogise Afenifere leader Fasoranti at 99

    President hails Sani Musa at 60, felicitates Eludoyin at 77

    President Bola Tinubu, Oyo and Lagos State governors, Seyi Makinde and Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have hailed Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, for serving his fatherland without blemish.

    In a tribute to the nonagenarian on his 99th birthday, President Tinubu lauded his legacy of integrity, resilience, and commitment to progressive ideals.

    “He is one Nigerian, who gave all to public service and served unblemished at every opportunity,” Tinubu said.

    Highlighting Fasoranti’s resolute stance during Nigeria’s turbulent political era, President Tinubu said: “In Nigeria’s darkest hours of military dictatorship and tyranny unleashed by the late General Sani Abacha, Baba Fasoranti and his comrades at Afenifere and (defunct) National Democratic Coalition stood firm and unbowed. Baba and his colleagues’ resilience inspired and strengthened us…

    “Baba Fasoranti has been dependable, graceful, and a model of leadership in my decades of knowing him and in our close personal interactions.”

    Recalling his personal bond with the Afenifere leader, especially during his presidential bid, the President said: “When I decided to run for the presidency three years ago, I visited Baba Fasoranti in Akure. I remain grateful for his blessings, support, and his belief in my vision for our country.”

    President Tinubu lauded Fasoranti’s professional and political achievements, noting his early years as a teacher and school administrator laid the foundation for a commitment to community development.

    “Baba’s career as a teacher, principal, and educationist reflects his commitment to service. After retirement, he established Omolere Nursery School and Akure High School. Both schools still stand as monuments to his legacy,” he said.

    Tinubu delved into Fasoranti’s political journey, his involvement in Obafemi Awolowo-led Action Group and later Unity Party of Nigeria.

    The President said he was one of Chief Awolowo’s trusted allies who served as commissioner for Finance in Ondo State under Adekunle Ajasin.

    “Baba Fasoranti’s tenure of sound fiscal management ensured the remarkable achievements recorded by the Ajasin administration and implementation of UPN Four Cardinal Points — free education, free healthcare, rural integration, and sustainable employment…

    “In times of personal loss and tragedy, Baba found strength in his Christian faith and has been a guide to all who continue to draw inspiration from his strength of character,” he said.

    In his message, Makinde said: “…Baba, we celebrate your life of service to the Yoruba and your contributions to nation-building over the years.

    “As you clock 99, it is our prayer that God grants your heart desires on Yoruba emancipation and the progress and well-being of Southwest and Nigeria. Happy birthday, Sir.”

    Sanwo-Olu described Fasoranti as a leader worthy of being celebrated for his contribution to growth and development of Yorubaland and Nigeria.

    In a statement yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the governor said: “Papa Fasoranti is a committed, respected and passionate leader. He has made positive impact in Yoruba land, and has done great exploits as leader of Afenifere, by steering the ship of the socio-cultural organisation in the right direction.

    “He is one of the trusted disciples of the late sage, Chief Awolowo. We are happy to celebrate Pa Fasoranti at 99 because it is not everybody who is blessed to attain 99, but it pleases God to spare Baba.”

    President Tinubu has hailed the senator representing Niger East, Mohammed Musa, on his 60th birthday.

    In a message yesterday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President  said: “Senator Musa has been a steadfast advocate for prudent economic management.”

    Since his election to the Senate in 2019, Musa has earned recognition for his service to his constituents and the nation.

    Read Also: Visit Nigeria, Ghana before judging Africa -Tems

    He lauded his “exemplary service built on a legacy of integrity, patriotism, and hard work”.

    He expressed confidence in the senator’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic growth, saying he believes Musa will “continue to make invaluable contributions to the Senate and represent Nigerians in strengthening democratic institutions”.

    The President also greeted his close friend and associate, Chief Dipo Eludoyin, as the businessman and Prince of Ile-Ife marks his 77th birthday.

    In a message, President Tinubu described Eludoyin as a trusted confidant, whose loyalty, business prowess, and support have left a mark on Nigeria and his personal journey.

    “Prince Eludoyin is one friend every leader should have in his corner. He has stood by me over the years and has continued to support my administration’s delivery of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

    He praised Eludoyin, chief executive officer of Paragon Holdings, for his transformative role in business.

    According to him, his enterprises have handled landmark projects in Nigeria and globally, creating jobs, fostering development, and driving philanthropy.

    “An astute businessman who grew his business from humble beginnings, Eludoyin has uncommon strength, tenacity, and commitment to excellence. He is dogged in business and resolute in supporting worthy causes,” Tinubu noted.

  • Sanwo-Olu’s N8.4b Lifeline for indigent Lagosians sparks hope for inclusive growth

    Sanwo-Olu’s N8.4b Lifeline for indigent Lagosians sparks hope for inclusive growth

    By Musiliu Agoro

    In the heart of Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, a quiet revolution is unfolding—one rooted not in infrastructure alone, but in people. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s sustained investment of over ₦8.4 billion in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector has emerged as a powerful catalyst for inclusive economic growth in Lagos State.

    At the 2025 edition of the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI)—a flagship empowerment program of the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA)—Governor Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming economic opportunity from privilege to right.

    The event witnessed the empowerment of 1,700 new beneficiaries, many of whom had recently completed vocational training. They received tools tailored to their trade: hairdressing kits, aluminum fabrication equipment, cake mixers, photography gear, POS machines, and cash grants—each a gateway to dignity, autonomy, and income.

    “When we uplift one entrepreneur, we uplift a family, a community, and ultimately, the future of Lagos,” Sanwo-Olu declared, drawing thunderous applause.

    MESI represents more than material support—it reflects a strategic pivot from welfare dependency to sustainable enterprise. By targeting indigent women, unemployed youth, and underserved communities, the initiative creates pathways to self-sufficiency through a combination of vocational training, financial literacy, and ongoing business mentorship.

    Sanwo-Olu, in his remarks, framed the effort not as charity, but as investment in human potential.

    “Through this support, we’re not just offering start-up capital; we’re unlocking potential, restoring dignity, and opening doors to prosperity for many across the state,” he said.

    Read Also: Tinubu hails Fasoranti at 99, describes Afenifere leader as rare Nigerian

    Since 2019, over 12,000 Lagosians have benefited from MESI, with ₦8.4 billion invested in grants, tools, and capacity development. The scale and consistency of this intervention place Lagos at the forefront of sub-national poverty alleviation efforts in Nigeria.

    This year’s expanded programme marks a deliberate scaling-up in response to rising economic inequality, positioning Lagos to meet global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to poverty, gender equity, and decent work.

    A standout aspect of MESI is its targeted focus on women empowerment. Under the leadership of Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has delivered life-changing opportunities to thousands of single mothers, widows, and young women from marginalized communities.

    “Do not sell these items. Invest wisely. Do not despise your humble beginnings,” Hon. Dada urged beneficiaries, emphasizing that empowerment is not a finish line but a starting point.

    Unlike many relief programmes, MESI insists on skill acquisition as a prerequisite. Beneficiaries undergo rigorous training in state-owned vocational centers in trades such as tailoring, cosmetology, digital payments, agriculture, photography, and aluminum fabrication.

    This ensures recipients are not just equipped, but ready—technically and mentally—to launch their own businesses.

    “Your success is a vital part of our collective progress in our beloved state,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Let this be the beginning of something great.”

    MESI is part of a wider ecosystem of social and economic interventions designed to lift Lagosians out of poverty:

    The Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) provides accessible loans to entrepreneurs. Digital literacy and startup support initiatives target tech-savvy youth. Public-private partnerships are catalyzing the formalization of the informal sector.

    Together, these programmes form a web of opportunity that is broadening access to capital, skills, and markets—especially for those previously excluded.

    Representing Lagos First Lady Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat praised MESI’s impact in bridging Lagos’ economic divide.

    “This initiative has transformed lives and will continue to be a tool against socioeconomic disparity in our state,” she said.

    MESI is more than an empowerment scheme; it is a policy signal that governance in Lagos is shifting toward inclusion, sustainability, and long-term impact. By placing economic tools in the hands of those often overlooked, the Sanwo-Olu administration is redefining what social protection can achieve at the sub-national level.

    The programme also sends a powerful message to other Nigerian states: that poverty can be fought not only through aid, but through opportunity.

    As Lagos continues to evolve into a global megacity, MESI could very well serve as a replicable model for urban centers seeking to build inclusive economies in the face of rising inequality and youth unemployment.

    “As you rise, remember to lift others along the way,” the governor urged, with rousing applause from beneficiaries.

    The THEME Agenda Plus of the Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has really transformed the state across sectors. Massive infrastructure in transportation, health and education sectors dot the entire landscape of Lagos.

    No doubt, Governor Sanwo-olu has built an enduring legacy that will last outlive him. The people of Lagos State will forever be grateful for his excellent service to humanity.

    •Agoro writes from Lagos

  • Sanwo-Olu, Ribadu, Ogunsan, Anosike, others to speak at the launch of new Centre at UWE

    Sanwo-Olu, Ribadu, Ogunsan, Anosike, others to speak at the launch of new Centre at UWE

    UWE Bristol is set to officially launch the Centre for African Social and Economic Transformation (CASET), a pioneering initiative designed to foster transformative partnerships across Africa and address some of the continent’s most pressing social and economic challenges.

    The Centre will be formally launched at UWE Bristol’s Frenchay campus on Thursday, 22 May at an event attended by international representatives from academia, government, and the private sector. 

    The launch will also feature the keynote address and investiture celebrating the appointment of His Excellency, Babajide Sanwa-Olu, the Executive Governor of Lagos State as the Centre’s Patron. Among other high-level dignitaries are Her Excellency, Professor Sarah Agbor, former African Union Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (ESTI) and Board Chair, Forum for Innovation in African Universities (FIAU); Professor Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Nigeria, Mr Klaus Schneider, Executive Partner at Schneider and Schaeffer, Germany, and Vice Chancellors from various African countries.

    The newly appointed member of CASET’s Advisory Board, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, Chairman Executive Group and Board Member, Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) will accompany the Governor to the launch along with other senior officials of the Lagos State government.

    CASET’s mission is to strengthen ties between African higher education institutions and University of the West of England (UWE), United Kingdom through capacity building, interdisciplinary research and knowledge exchange, while removing barriers to higher education. 

    This will be achieved via transnational education (TNE) partnerships, providing African students access to high-quality, internationally-recognised learning with a focus on entrepreneurship and digital capability. 

    The establishment of CASET coincides with when many African Youths are disproportionately affected by unemployment compared to their global counterparts.  Through targeted entrepreneurship programmes, CASET is committed to bridging this gap and unlocking the continent’s full potential.

    Among CASET’s flagship initiatives is the British Council-funded ‘Bridging Borders Project (BBP)’, which is embedding startup ecosystems in University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, and Covenant University. Professor Paschal Anosike, the Founding Director of CASET and the Project Lead, commented: “By strengthening the capacity of 130+ higher education practitioners to integrate entrepreneurship into the curricula, fostering university-industry collaboration, and equipping over 120,000 students with startup skills, the BBP project aims to drive transformative change in Nigeria’s higher education systems through transnational education.” 

    Professor Anosike has been instrumental in driving the Centre’s establishment, while leading UWE’s ambition to expand in Africa through TNE partnerships. He brings unmatched experience in forging transformative partnerships across African higher education sector through capacity building, research, youth entrepreneurship programmes, and policymaking.

    Read Also: Hajj: Sanwo-Olu to bid pilgrims farewell on Sunday

    Professor Sir Steven West, the Vice Chancellor at UWE Bristol said: UWE Bristol recognises Africa as a thriving hub of youthful vibrancy, entrepreneurship, and social innovation. CASET will serve as our leading platform to unlock this potential through strategic partnerships, interdisciplinary research, and knowledge exchange, co-creating and fostering solutions to the continent’s most pressing challenges”.

    Jo Midgley, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Registrar at UWE Bristol, added: “The establishment of CASET reinforces our commitment to tackling societal challenges through global collaboration. By focusing on the educational and employment needs of young people in Africa, CASET aligns perfectly with UWE Bristol’s ethos of innovation, inclusion and enterprise”.

    CASET also builds on UWE Bristol’s extensive social and cultural engagement including through The Daigo Project and Project Zulu, a UWE Bristol initiatives to address systemic vulnerabilities in The Gambia and South Africa, and supports leading academic work by Professor Peter Case and Professor Richard Bolden who are working with Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute at the University of Pretoria to strengthen healthcare delivery and leadership systems in Africa.

  • Statistician-General lauds Sanwo-Olu’s achievement in data management

    Statistician-General lauds Sanwo-Olu’s achievement in data management

    Statistician-General of the Federation (SGF)/CEO, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, yesterday visited Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to seek support in advancing the development of a formalised and sustainable statistical system, in line with the 2007 Statistical Act.

    During the meeting at the Lagos House, Ikeja, the SGF hailed Sanwo-Olu for his giant infrastructural strides, which, he noted, was obvious to all observers.

    Adeniran lauded Sanwo-Olu’s data entrenched governance focus, emphasising the importance of robust data infrastructure in capturing the state’s dynamic socio-economic landscape.

    He said: “Building resilient sub-national data systems is essential to achieving Nigeria’s broader development objectives,” adding that “Lagos, as a pacesetter, must continue to lead the charge in statistical excellence.”

    Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to champion a comprehensive upgrade of the statistical architecture.

    Read Also: Why I will not step down over Natasha’s sexual allegations, by Akpabio

    “Data has become the lifeblood of modern governance,” the governor said. “We are committed to establishing a robust ecosystem that supports evidence-based planning, informed investment decisions and effective policy implementation.”

    The governor pledged that Lagos Bureau of Statistics would attain full autonomy before the end of the year, reinforcing the state government’s long-standing commitment to transparency, accountability and data-informed development.

    Also in attendance were the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem; Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Sam Egube; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Mrs. Olayinka Modupe Ojo.

    This renewed commitment underscores Lagos State leadership in promoting statistical excellence and ensuring data remains central to governance, planning and service delivery.

  • Statistician-General lauds Sanwo-Olu’s achievement in data management architecture

    Statistician-General lauds Sanwo-Olu’s achievement in data management architecture

    In a significant move towards deepening data-driven governance in Nigeria, the Statistician-General of the Federation (SGF)/CEO National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, paid a visit to the governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, to seek  support in advancing the development of a formalised and sustainable statistical system in line with the 2007 Statistical Act.

    During the meeting at the Lagos House, Ikeja, the SGF commended Sanwo-Olu for his giant infrastructural strides, which, he said, is obvious to all observers.

    Adeniran lauded Sanwo-Olu’s data entrenched governance focus, even as he emphasised the importance of robust data infrastructure in capturing the state’s dynamic socio-economic landscape.

    “Building resilient sub-national data systems is essential to achieving Nigeria’s broader development objectives,” said Prince Adeniran, adding that “Lagos, as a pacesetter, must continue to lead the charge in statistical excellence.”

    Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to champion a comprehensive upgrade of the statistical architecture.

    “Data has become the lifeblood of modern governance,” the governor said. “We are committed to establishing a robust ecosystem that supports evidence-based planning, informed investment decisions, and effective policy implementation.”

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu administration widens planning permit

    The governor pledged that the Lagos Bureau of Statistics will attain full autonomy before the end of the year, reinforcing the state government’s long-standing commitment to transparency, accountability, and data-informed development.

    Also in attendance were the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem; the Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Sam Egube; and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Mrs. Olayinka Modupe Ojo.

    This renewed commitment underscores Lagos state leadership in promoting statistical excellence and ensuring that data remains central to governance, planning, and service delivery.

  • Sanwo-Olu administration widens planning permit

    Sanwo-Olu administration widens planning permit

    The Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration has, in the last six years, widened the planning permit net with the approval of more buildings in Lagos State.

    Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, said this yesterday during the ministerial briefing by the Office of Physical Planning, at Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja.

    He said the state government, through Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), had, in the last six years, granted 37, 266 approvals for uses, including residential, commercial, mixed-use and institutional, among others.

    He added that in 2024 alone, LASPPPA granted approvals for 95 hospitals, 27 filling stations, 151 shopping malls and 95 schools, among others.

    Olumide said LASPPPA surpassed its pre-amnesty window record of 2,201 approvals by 6,655, as it granted 8, 856 approvals between May and December, 2024 while the amnesty window was on.

    The commissioner, who was excited at the success of the amnesty programme designed to allow owners and developers of existing buildings without approvals the opportunity to regularise their property, said the Sanwo-Olu administration encouraged more property owners to regularise their buildings, as application and approval rate swelled during the amnesty window that lasted for 180 days.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu commissions magistrates’ quarters

    He said: “The amnesty window was divided into three phases, yielding impressive results: for the first phase (May-July 2024), LASPPPPA granted 2,151 approvals; the second phase, (August-October 2024) witnessed a total of 6,402 applications out of which 3,570 approvals were granted; and the third phase (November-December 2024) recorded 7,210 applications and 3,135 approvals, bringing the total Amnesty Period achievements to 18,489 applications and 8,856 Approvals, respectively. “

    He added that the two months that followed the Amnesty window, that is, January and February 2025, recorded a combined 1,369 approvals against 2,084 applications.

    He urged property owners and developers to always seek the Planning Information service of the Ministry and guide against factors causing delays in Approval, such as non- compliance with zonning regulations, exceeding permissible limits, and deviation from Master Plan, among others

  • Sanwo-Olu kicks-off road project in Ikorodu

    Sanwo-Olu kicks-off road project in Ikorodu

    In a move to strengthen infrastructure and uplift rural communities in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has flagged off the construction of the Monsuru-Egbeyemi Street / Alhaja-Agbaje Street Road in Ikorodu Local Government Area.

    Speaking during the ceremony, Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, highlighted the administration’s dedication to impactful governance through infrastructural development in the various communities across the state.

    According to him, “the long-anticipated 1.3-kilometre project is poised to significantly enhance road connectivity and unlock economic opportunities for residents of Monsuru Egbeyemi, Alhaja Agbaje Street, Adlas Arisa Street and part of Cyril Street in Ikorodu Local Government Area.”

    Agbaje explained that the strategic road project would feature drainage systems, culverts, an outfall drain, 1,000-watt solar-powered streetlights, kerb painting, and lane markings—underscoring the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, especially in the area of  traffic management and transportation.

    He further described the road as more than just infrastructure, calling it a lifeline that would connect farmers to markets, students to schools, businesses to customers, and families to a better quality of life.

    “This is not just a road—it is a springboard for prosperity,” he added.

    Agbaje called on residents to take ownership of the project and protect it, emphasising that public infrastructure is funded by taxpayers and must be preserved. He assured the community that the road would not be abandoned, as competent contractors have been engaged and the Office of Rural Development, through its project monitoring efforts, would ensure quality and timely delivery.

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwo, in her welcome address, noted that the contractor has been mobilised and are expected to move to the site by next week, while reaffirming the state government’s commitment to bringing various developmental projects such as empowerment and infrastructural development to Ikorodu Local Government Area.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu commissions magistrates’ quarters

    She cited the project as part of the many initiatives driven by Governor Sanwo-Olu’s mandate to transform rural communities in the sate.

    She also urged residents to take ownership of the project by ensuring they create a seamless environment for the contractors to execute the project.

    In their goodwill messages, former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye; Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Wasiu Adesina, represented by the Secretary of the Local Government, Afini Adesina; and Chairman of APC Ikorodu Central, Waheed Animashaun, commended the governor for prioritising the needs of Ikorodu residents, while encouraging members of the community to safeguard the project for the collective benefit of all.

    Prince Ogunleye also appealed to property owners not to exploit the development by increasing rents, urging consideration for tenants.

  • Afenifere hails Sanwo-Olu for defending Tinubu’s record

    Afenifere hails Sanwo-Olu for defending Tinubu’s record

    Yoruba socio-cultural organisation Afenifere has commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for rising in defence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against the scathing remarks by Mr. Peter Obi at the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, United States last month.

    Afenifere, in a statement by its National Organising Secretary, Chief Kole Omololu, praised Sanwo-Olu for defending Tinubu and the nation against opposition politicians’ incendiary calumny campaign.

    It noted that certain political elements with the intention to undermine cohesion and discrediting the government were conducting increasingly calculated manoeuvres.

    It stated that the orchestrated campaigns, often cloaked in the rhetoric of democratic dissent, were crossing the fine line between legitimate political opposition and a harmful assault on the nation’s global reputation.

    “In a period marked by multifaceted challenges and strains on national cohesion, the burden of leadership must encompass preserving our homeland’s integrity; remaining tacit in the face of concerted calumny is tantamount to complicity.

    Read Also: What then is the hope of a Nigerian student?

    “His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who spoke up in defence of the President and the nation, we say well done.”

    Afenifere referenced Obi’s criticism in the U.S. university as a grievous affront to the values that underpinned national aspiration.

    Sanwo-Olu berated Obi for undermining the nation’s economic interests. He stated that the former LP presidential candidate lacked the moral authority to criticise the president’s administration’s record because he underperformed during his tenure as the Anambra State governor.

    Afenifere praised Sanwo-Olu for setting the record straight and called on other governors to follow in his footsteps. “We specifically call upon members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and the South-West Governors’ Forum to rise to the occasion and speak with a unified and resolute voice. A principled and vigorous defence of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and international esteem is both apposite and imperative.”

  • Lagos govt spends N10bn on empowerment in five years

    Lagos govt spends N10bn on empowerment in five years

    The Lagos State Government has spent nearly N10 billion over the past five years on the empowerment of vulnerable residents, particularly women, through its Micro-Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI).

    Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu disclosed this on Tuesday, in Ikeja during an empowerment ceremony for 1,750 beneficiaries under the initiative, which is implemented through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA).

    “We have spent close to ₦10 billion to buy various equipment in a period of five years, and this is like the ninth time we have come up with this programme within these years. I envision a Lagos where every young aspiring entrepreneur is employed or empowered, and I see this micro-enterprise support as one of the critical avenues to reach young people in the state.” Sanwo-Olu said.

    The governor explained that the programme is a strategic tool to combat poverty and foster economic growth among the state’s most vulnerable populations.

    Read Also: Lagos, Police raise Strike Force to battle criminals

    “Apart from the fact that this intervention is key for our administration’s performance, this is the real dividend of democracy where lives are being impacted directly for the growth of the state.”

    He praised WAPA for the initiative and urged beneficiaries to utilise the equipment effectively to build sustainable livelihoods.

    “The minimum we expect from you is to use these equipment well, don’t sell it to buy Aso-ebi,” he warned. “You were all trained for free and these equipment were also given to you free, to start a business and be financially independent.”

    Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs Bolaji Dada described MESI as a transformative programme designed to foster entrepreneurship and economic self-reliance among indigent residents.

    “MESI has directly empowered thousands of residents by providing equipment, training, and start-up capital. Under Gov. Sanwo‑Olu’s THEMES+ agenda, Lagos State has redoubled its focus on social inclusion and economic self‑reliance.”

    She added that WAPA operates 19 tuition-free skills acquisition centres across the five divisions of the state, with open access regardless of religion or ethnicity.

    “Let us all recommit ourselves to the vision of a Lagos where entrepreneurship is not limited by circumstance, but is a universal opportunity,” she said.

  • Sanwo-Olu tackles Obi over remarks on poverty index

    Sanwo-Olu tackles Obi over remarks on poverty index

    Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has responded to Peter Obi’s comments about Nigeria made at Johns Hopkins University in the United States, criticising the 2023 Labour Party Presidential candidate for what he deemed disparaging remarks about the country.

    During his recent appearance at the prestigious institution, Obi outlined how Nigeria’s economic decline over the past 25 years has led to a drastic rise in poverty. 

    He used the poverty index to compare Nigeria with China, Indonesia, and Vietnam, showing how the country’s poverty levels have surged.

    Obi explained that, in 1990, when the Human Development Index (HDI) was first measured, Nigeria, China, Indonesia, and Vietnam all fell within the “medium” category. At that time, Nigeria had the fewest people in poverty, but by 2025, the situation had dramatically changed. Obi argued that Nigeria now has more poor people than China, Indonesia, and Vietnam combined.

    “In 1990, Nigeria had about 50 million people in poverty, the fewest among these countries,” Obi stated. “However, today, Nigeria has more poor people than China, Indonesia, and Vietnam combined.”

    However, Sanwo-Olu, in his response titled: “Factually addressing Mr. Peter Obi’s criticism of Nigeria at Johns Hopkins University,” accused Obi of making negative comments about Nigeria on the global stage, which he believed undermined the country’s image.

    Read Also: Peter Obi breached protocol over Benue visit, says Alia

    Sanwo-Olu expressed concerns over Obi’s pattern of behavior, suggesting that prominent Nigerians should aim to project a positive image of the country when abroad.

     “We have a duty to promote Nigeria globally, not to disparage her,” he remarked, stressing that true patriotism lies in showcasing the nation in a positive light, regardless of government affiliation.

    Addressing Obi’s poverty analysis, Sanwo-Olu pointed out that tackling poverty requires a long-term commitment to education, healthcare, access to credit, and land. He found it ironic that Obi, during his tenure as Governor of Anambra, did not build a single school or hospital, yet he was now criticizing the government’s efforts in these areas.

    “I find it odd that Obi, who did not establish any schools or hospitals during his time as governor, is now pointing fingers at the federal government, which has been actively investing in education and healthcare,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    The Governor further explained that under Obi’s leadership in Anambra, the poverty rate actually increased from 41.4% to 53.7% in just two years. In contrast, Obi’s successor, Willie Obiano, succeeded in reducing the poverty rate significantly after Obi left office.

    “I am not sure Mr. Obi is morally in a position to make the alarming claims he made about Nigeria, considering his own role in the rise of poverty in Anambra,” Sanwo-Olu concluded.