30th August, 2024
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs through the implementation of the Gender Responsive Procurement (GRP) Policy.
The GRP Policy is designed to increase the participation of women in state government contracts, addressing the current disparity in public procurement access between men and women.
Speaking at a media forum hosted by the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency in collaboration with UN Women on Friday, Director-General of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, Idowu Onafowote, emphasized the importance of the initiative.
He noted that the policy aims to dismantle the longstanding barriers that have limited women-owned businesses and cooperatives from fully engaging in the state’s economic activities.
“For too long, women-owned businesses have faced challenges such as limited access to finance, information, and capacity, which have hindered their participation in our state’s economy,” Onafowote stated.
“This policy is our commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive procurement environment that values and promotes gender equality,” he added.
Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, also highlighted the significance of the initiative, describing it as a vital step in bridging the gender gap in government contracts.
“Currently, 80 percent of government contracts are secured by men, leaving only 20 percent to women. This gap must be closed. The partnership between the Lagos State Government and UN Women aims to achieve a more balanced 40-60 ratio,” Akosile said.
He added, “Governor Sanwo-Olu is committed to empowering women economically, and this initiative is part of his vision to support women in achieving great things when given the opportunity.”
Ms. Adeola Sanwo, Head of the Contractor Registration Department at the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, called for an executive order from Sanwo-Olu to ensure the mandatory implementation of the policy across all state ministries and agencies.
She stressed the need for a robust platform that encourages more women to participate in the procurement process.
Sanwo also expressed gratitude to UN Women for their ongoing support in promoting gender equality and empowering women in Lagos State.
In his address, Mr. Anthony Abu, Head of Communication at UN Women, urged the media to play a proactive role in changing the narrative around women’s empowerment and to influence policy actions that favor gender inclusion. He emphasized the power of the media in shaping public perceptions and advancing women’s rights through informed reporting.
