Lagos govt. empowers 11,000 residents

Eleven thousand people, across eleven centers have graduated from the third phase of the Lagos State Government Expanded Economic Empowerment Programme.

NAN reports that the programme is part of the government’s efforts in eradicating poverty through the training of beneficiaries in various skills aimed at making them self employed.

The Deputy Governor of the state, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, said that the skill acquired by the beneficiaries would be handy based on existing markets.

“All the programmes are such that do not need electricity, shop or much capital to start.

“With little amount of capital you can start off in the corner of your room and start making money for yourselves.

“Lagos is known for ‘owanbe’ parties, so, people will come seeking the service of those that learnt head tie and make up, they will in turn charge them from N2, 000 upwards.

“Jewellery is now expensive because the dollar has gone up, more people will embrace beads as an adornment. To the beads maker, I say congratulations, money has come.

“For all the skills acquired, there is market for the services in the state,” she said.

Orelope-Adefulire appealed to the organised private sector to partner with the state government to empower more youths through vocational skills.

She said that the skills acquired by the youths would reduce unemployment and vices in the society.

Also speaking, Muyiwa Jimoh, representing Apapa Constituency II at the State’s House of Assembly, appreciated the government’s effort in empowering members of the public.

“I thank the state government for training over 500 people in my constituency and we ask for more of these opportunities in the future.

“Most of us that have benefited from these kind of opportunities, it is our responsibility to train others,” Jimoh said.

Jonathan Nwogbo, a 72-year-old beneficiary of the soap and pomade production class said: “I thank the government for reaching out to meet the needs of the people by empowering us to be a better persons”.

NAN reports that about 30,000 Nigerians had benefited from the programme since inception in September 2014.

The beneficiaries acquired skills in sewing and knitting, beads stringing, event decoration, hair dressing, make up and general tying, hat making, soap and pomade production.

Others are catering and food preparation, manicure, pedicure and face treatment.

The beneficiaries are also provided with various tools to practice their respective vocations.