Lagos Begins First Phase Of 2026 Micro Enterprise Support Programme

The Lagos State Government has flagged off the first phase of the 2026 Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI), a programme aimed at empowering small business owners and reducing poverty through financial and equipment support.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, inaugurated the programme on Tuesday.

Beneficiaries in the first phase include traders, fashion designers, food vendors, technicians, barbers and artisans selected through what the state government described as a transparent verification process conducted across all local government areas.

The Micro Enterprise Support Initiative, implemented by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), was introduced in 2019 to tackle poverty at the grassroots and promote inclusive economic growth.

The programme targets socio-economically disadvantaged women, indigent youths and graduates of government skills acquisition centres by providing business training, start-up capital and work tools to help them establish and expand their enterprises.

Representing the governor, Hamzat said the initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to creating economic opportunities for vulnerable residents and strengthening micro and small businesses, which play a key role in the state’s economy.

The state government said the programme is expected to enhance self-reliance, create jobs and improve household incomes by supporting beneficiaries to build sustainable livelihoods.