Senator Idiat Adebule, representing Lagos West Senatorial District, has empowered 1,000 youths and women through a vocational training initiative in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the National Institute for Freshwater Fisheries Research (NIFFRI).
Beneficiaries were trained in various skills, including fashion, barbing, confectionery, leatherworks, and hairdressing, and were provided with startup tools to kickstart their businesses.
At the distribution ceremony of the empowerment materials, Dr. Adebule described the initiative as a fulfillment of her pledge made during a stakeholder engagement on August 27, 2024.
She reaffirmed her commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and reducing unemployment in Lagos West.
“Today’s event is about distributing work tools and equipment as starter packs to these 1,000 participants. These tools include sewing machines, gas cylinders, cooking wares, hair dryers, leather sewing machines, barbing clippers, and generators,” she said.
Dr. Adebule emphasized that the program aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Lagos State Government’s empowerment policies.
She highlighted the economic significance of the initiative, noting that it would help participants become self-reliant, reduce poverty, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.
“The significance of this program is that 1,000 youths and women are leaving the unemployment market to become self-employed, earn a decent living, and employ others. This is a practical step towards eradicating poverty and crime in line with President Tinubu’s agenda,” she added.
The senator urged beneficiaries to view the empowerment as a life-changing opportunity and advised them to embrace ethical business practices, integrity, and discipline.
“Take advantage of this opportunity to uplift yourself and your community. There are countless success stories of individuals who began with little and grew into giants in their industries. Let this be the start of your journey to excellence,” she encouraged.
Prominent figures, including APC Lagos State Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi, Governance Advisory Council members Dr. Abayomi Finnih and Cardinal James Odunmbaku, praised the senator’s initiative. They advised beneficiaries to use the tools effectively and avoid selling them, emphasizing the importance of maximizing the opportunity.
Grateful beneficiaries also expressed their appreciation. Habeebat Oladipo promised to utilize her cooking equipment effectively, while Israel Adedoyin applauded the program and expressed hope for more initiatives in the future.
Dr. Adebule assured constituents that additional empowerment programs and training sessions are in the pipeline to further support the development of Lagos West residents.
