The Chairman of Agege Local Government Council, Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa, has announced a ₦100 million grant to support youths and women running small businesses in Agege, Lagos.
He made this known during the graduation ceremony of the Skills Elevation Programme held at the council secretariat. At the event, 1,000 participants completed vocational and digital training organised by the council.
Obasa said the fund would be released into the local economy in partnership with Speed Up Lagos, also known as the Anti-Poverty Squad. The aim is to help small business owners who often struggle to access bank loans.
Training for 1,000 Residents
The programme covered practical skills that participants can use to earn a living. Areas of training included:
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Catering
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Food processing
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Fashion design
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Makeup artistry
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Gele styling
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Hairstyling
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Home essentials production
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Sandal making
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Digital technology
Many of the graduates said the training gave them hands-on experience and more confidence to run their businesses.
A catering graduate said the support would help her expand her food business and serve more customers. A trainee in digital technology said the skills and financial backing would improve his chances in the tech field.
Support from Stakeholders
Former council chairman Ganiyu Egunjobi described the move as a continuation of earlier empowerment programmes in Agege.
Sherifat Adedoyin, a board member of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, said the initiative fits into the wider skills development plan of Lagos State.
Focus on Small Businesses
Small businesses are common in Agege and many families depend on them for daily income. With the ₦100 million grant, the council hopes to give business owners the support they need to grow.
Community members who attended the event said the programme could help reduce poverty and improve living standards in the area.
For many of the 1,000 graduates, the training marks the start of a new phase. With skills and financial support in place, they now have the tools to build and sustain their businesses within the community.
