Lagos strengthens Household Economic Programme, empowers 200 families
Not less than 200 vulnerable households in Lagos State have benefited from the Household Economic Strengthening (HES) programme, organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development at the Assbifi Event Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, said the initiative is aimed at enhancing the economic capacity of households affected by HIV and other social vulnerabilities. He noted that the programme reflects the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive development under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
“The Household Economic Strengthening Programme is a strategic intervention aligned with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the State Government, particularly under the Social Inclusion and Gender Equality pillar.
“Through these initiatives, we are providing sustainable support to households by enhancing their income-generating abilities and reducing reliance on external assistance. Economic empowerment remains one of the most enduring forms of social support,” Ogunlende stated.
In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Pharm (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, described the HES programme as a core component of Lagos State’s social protection and inclusion agenda. She added that it provides vulnerable households with tools and opportunities to achieve sustainable livelihoods, improve living standards, reduce poverty, enhance resilience, and promote self-sufficiency.
Pharm (Mrs.) Oke-Osanyintolu expressed appreciation to partners such as the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) and the Nigerian Association of People Living with HIV for their continued support, which she said has extended the reach and impact of the programme. She also urged beneficiaries to utilise the empowerment tools responsibly, build their businesses, and create employment opportunities for others.
During the programme, Global Peace Ambassador Comrade Osita Osemene facilitated a “Financial Literacy” session, teaching participants how to manage resources using Maslow’s pyramid of needs. Beneficiaries also received guidance on budgeting, investment, business regulations, integrity, and financial obligations to improve their economic ventures.
Empowerment tools distributed included sewing machines, grinding machines, popcorn machines, cobbling machines, hairdressing and barbing equipment, all intended to enhance economic resilience and create sustainable income-generating opportunities for households across the State.
