BENJAMIN OMOIKE
LAGOS, Nigeria — In a bold step to address systemic gender inequalities and promote inclusive economic growth, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday launched the Lagos State Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy Roadmap. The landmark event, held at the Muson Centre, Onikan, was attended by key stakeholders from government, civil society, and the private sector.
Developed by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, the WEE Policy Roadmap is a strategic framework aimed at breaking longstanding barriers that hinder women’s full participation in the economy. The initiative aligns with state, national, and global development goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the roadmap as a “living instrument” designed not only to exist on paper but to transform the lives of women across the state.
“This roadmap is not just a document; it is a strategic tool for unlocking the full potential of the women of Lagos State,” the governor stated. “Empowering women economically does not only lift individual households; it strengthens our communities, grows our economy, and secures a prosperous future for generations to come.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the roadmap was the result of a broad-based, inclusive consultation process. Stakeholders from various ministries, agencies, private sector bodies, civil society, and women’s groups — including women with disabilities — participated in shaping the policy.
The governor outlined key focus areas of the roadmap, including agriculture, entrepreneurship, traditional labour markets, emerging industries, education, and skills development.
“In agriculture, we aim to expand women’s access to digital tools and financing,” he said. “In entrepreneurship, we will design gender-responsive financial services and expand mentorship networks. For women in the labour market, we’ll promote family-friendly policies and strengthen enforcement of labour laws.”
He added that the policy also targets emerging sectors such as STEM and digital technology, with incentives for companies to train and employ women, and includes provisions for scholarships and vocational training in sectors like renewable energy, ICT, and healthcare.
Representing the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, described the roadmap as a bold and much-needed intervention to address structural challenges facing Nigerian women. She urged women to remain focused and called for the widespread domestication of the policy at all levels.
In her goodwill message, Mrs. Agnes Abraham, representing the Minister of Women Affairs, Iman Sulaiman-Ibrahim, applauded Lagos for championing gender inclusivity and called for increased budget allocations to women-focused initiatives.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Cecilia Bolaji Dada, reiterated that the roadmap marks a collective commitment to dismantling gender-based barriers and expanding women’s access to opportunities in both traditional and non-traditional industries.
“This roadmap was developed through a 12-month domestication process, engaging grassroots women — from Iyalojas to professionals and women with disabilities,” Dada said. “It is a practical and inclusive strategy that speaks to the real experiences of women in Lagos.”
Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, also praised the initiative and called for multi-stakeholder collaboration to ensure its full implementation.
The Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Women Affairs, represented by Hon. Omolara Oyekan-Olumegbon, pledged legislative support for the policy’s rollout and sustainability.
The event also drew commendation from the United Nations. UN Women Country Representative, Beatrice Eyong, described the roadmap as a significant step toward achieving true empowerment for women and girls in Lagos.
“Economic empowerment is the foundation of real empowerment,” she noted. “When women are empowered, they exceed expectations. This policy is not just a declaration—it’s a commitment to a Lagos where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.”
