Ministry Empowers 200 Vulnurable Household In Lagos

Not less than 200 vulnerable households 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. The initiative aims to enhance the economic capacity of households affected by HIV and other related social circumstances, providing practical support to improve livelihoods and ensure inclusivity under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.

In his keynote address, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, highlighted that the HES programme aligns with the THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly the pillars of Social Inclusion and Gender Equality. He emphasised that the initiative empowers households to generate sustainable income, reduce reliance on external support, and promote long-term economic independence as a form of enduring social support.

The Permanent Secretary, Pharm (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, in her welcome address, described the HES programme as a critical component of the State Government’s social protection and inclusion agenda. She noted that it equips vulnerable households with tools and opportunities to achieve sustainable livelihoods, reduce poverty, enhance resilience, and promote self-sufficiency, while acknowledging the support of partners such as the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) and the Nigerian Association of People Living with HIV.

Comrade Osita Osemene, a Global Peace Ambassador and facilitator of the programme, led beneficiaries through a session on “Financial Literacy,” using Maslow’s pyramid of needs to teach them how to prioritise their financial resources. Participants were guided on budgeting, investment, business rules and regulations, integrity, and financial obligations, equipping them with essential skills to effectively manage and grow their businesses.

Beneficiaries received various empowerment tools, including sewing machines, grinding machines, popcorn machines, cobbling equipment, hairdressing, and barbing kits. These resources were distributed to households from across Lagos State to enhance economic resilience, provide sustainable income-generating opportunities, and improve overall wellbeing, while encouraging them to build businesses that could create employment for others.