On January 25, 2025, at the Balmoral Convention Center by Sheraton in Lagos, Hon. Cecilia Bolaji Dada, the Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, was bestowed with the prestigious Changemakers Award during the African Humanitarian Awards and Gala Night. This annual event celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to humanitarian efforts across Africa. The 2025 ceremony was graced by notable figures, including Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. cecilia Bolaji Dada.
Achievements of the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation under Hon. Dada
Since her appointment in August 2019, Hon. Cecilia Bolaji Dada has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at empowering women and alleviating poverty in Lagos State. Under her leadership, the ministry has implemented various programs to enhance the socio-economic status of residents:
- Skill Acquisition Programs: The ministry has facilitated the training of approximately 13,500 women through various skill acquisition programs. These programs, conducted across 20 functional skills acquisition centers, offer training in over 20 vocations, including fashion designing, catering, hairdressing, and computer studies. Graduates receive certificates of competency, enabling them to apply for loans from the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund to support their businesses.
- Micro-Enterprise Support Scheme (MESI): In 2023, about 2,100 individuals benefited from the MESI program, which provides participants with start-up packs upon completion of a four-week short-term skills acquisition course. The initiative aims to curb unemployment and promote self-reliance among citizens.
- Empowerment of Vulnerable Residents: In October 2024, the ministry empowered 5,512 vulnerable women and youths with vocational skills. Beneficiaries, including refugees, out-of-school adolescents, and retiring civil servants, were trained in various skills to foster personal growth and economic development.
- Support for Retiring Officers: The ministry has empowered 250 retiring officers through a four-week short-term skills acquisition program, enhancing their post-retirement lifestyles.
- Domestic and Sexual Violence Response: The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT) was established to rescue and rehabilitate domestic violence victims. The state also released guidelines against domestic and sexual violence, providing standards for relevant agencies.
These initiatives reflect Hon. Dada’s commitment to empowering women, reducing poverty, and fostering economic growth in Lagos State. Her recognition at the African Humanitarian Awards underscores the significant impact of her efforts in improving the lives of residents.
