In a targeted move to cushion economic pressures and stimulate local growth, the Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, recently empowered 300 residents of the Alimosho Federal Constituency.
The initiative, led by Commissioner Akinyemi Ajigbotafe on Saturday, January 10, 2026, utilized the Alimosho Local Government Secretariat as a hub for distributing cash grants, food items, and educational support.
Breakdown of the Empowerment Program
The program adopted a multi-sectoral approach, ensuring that support reached the most critical areas of the community:
| Beneficiary Category | Number Assisted | Form of Support |
| Small Business Owners | 100 Entrepreneurs | Direct cash support for inventory and equipment. |
| Vulnerable Households | 140 Families | Essential food items to mitigate inflation. |
| Indigent Students | 60 Students | Financial aid for tuition and school-related expenses. |
Strategic Objectives
Commissioner Ajigbotafe emphasized that this program is part of a broader strategy to ensure that Alimosho, the state’s most populous constituency, remains a productive economic engine.
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Fostering Self-Reliance: By providing capital to MSMEs, the state aims to move residents from job seekers to job creators.
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Constituency Unity: The beneficiaries were selected from across the six administrative areas (Alimosho LGA and the five LCDAs), reinforcing the message of “one Alimosho.”
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Economic Cushioning: The food distribution serves as a vital social safety net amid the ongoing economic transition in Nigeria.
Part of the “Empower Lagos” 2027 Vision
This local intervention aligns with the ministry’s “Empower Lagos” project, which aims to lift 4 million residents out of poverty by 2027.
Key pillars of this vision for 2026 include:
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StartRight Lagos: A mentorship program launched in late 2025 to help new businesses scale effectively.
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LSETF Partnerships: Strategic collaborations with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund to provide low-interest loans (9% per annum) to business owners.
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Digital Integration: Distribution of free POS machines to thousands of small traders to facilitate digital transactions.
“Empowering our small business owners ensures that they can expand, restock, and grow. This is not just a gesture; it is an investment in the aspirations of our people.” — Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe
