The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth through strategic and substantial investments in women-owned businesses across the state. This commitment was underscored at the 2025 WAPA Connect conference, a platform organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, with the theme, “Investing in Lagos Women: Investing in Growth.” The governor, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, articulated the administration’s vision of a greater Lagos that actively champions the growth and empowerment of every woman, emphasizing the conference’s alignment with this core objective. He highlighted the implementation of a comprehensive women’s empowerment roadmap, showcasing concrete steps taken to dismantle barriers hindering women’s progress and economic participation.
The WAPA Connect conference serves as a crucial instrument for aligning women across Lagos with the government’s strategic roadmap. The administration’s focus on policy development is pivotal in ensuring the realization of its ambitious goals for women’s empowerment. These policies, characterized by clarity and ambition, aim to propel the roadmap’s successful implementation. Furthermore, the government seeks to strengthen alliances with key stakeholders and enhance data collection on women’s issues to inform more effective and targeted interventions. Ultimately, the mission is to provide women with the necessary tools and resources, including access to finance, to flourish in their entrepreneurial pursuits, thereby contributing significantly to the state’s economic prosperity.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, shed light on the conference’s primary purpose, emphasizing its role as a catalyst for connecting women from diverse professional backgrounds. This unique platform facilitates networking, idea sharing, and collaboration, ultimately fostering an environment conducive to business growth and development. Dada underscored the profound impact of investing in women, highlighting the ripple effect it has on families and the overall economy of Lagos State. She stressed that empowering women translates to stronger families and a more robust and vibrant economy.
WAPA Connect functions as a bridge-building initiative, empowering women to expand their horizons and aspire to greater heights in their businesses and professional endeavors. The conference underscores the symbiotic relationship between women’s empowerment and economic growth, encapsulating the notion that when women rise and thrive, Lagos prospers, and the entire community benefits. This philosophy underscores the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for women to succeed, recognizing their pivotal role in driving economic progress.
The Lagos State government’s dedication to women’s empowerment goes beyond mere rhetoric. The implementation of a comprehensive roadmap, coupled with focused policy development, signifies a tangible commitment to tangible action. The administration recognizes that investing in women is not just a social imperative but also a sound economic strategy. By providing women with the resources and opportunities to succeed, the government is investing in the future of Lagos, fostering a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.
The WAPA Connect conference serves as a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving ecosystem for women entrepreneurs. By creating a platform for networking, collaboration, and access to crucial resources, the government is empowering women to take charge of their economic destinies. This proactive approach not only benefits individual women but also strengthens families, communities, and the overall economy of Lagos State, solidifying its position as a leader in championing women’s empowerment and driving sustainable economic growth.
