The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to women’s empowerment during the launch of the HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0 organised by Fidelity Bank Plc.
Eko Hot News reports that the programme launch was held at Fidelity Place as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day.
The event brought together government officials, business leaders and female entrepreneurs to highlight initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s economic participation and financial independence.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Cecilia Dada, commended Fidelity Bank for its continued support in promoting financial inclusion and economic opportunities for women.
She noted that collaboration between government institutions and private sector organisations remains essential for creating opportunities that empower women and strengthen communities.
According to Dada, the Ministry remains focused on implementing programmes that improve the socio-economic well-being of women across Lagos State.
She explained that the ministry’s initiatives align with the development priorities outlined in the THEMES Plus Agenda of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
The commissioner stated that through various empowerment programmes, women in Lagos are gaining access to skills training, entrepreneurship support and financial opportunities.
She highlighted the role of the ministry’s Skills Acquisition Centres, where women receive vocational training designed to enhance self-reliance and economic productivity.
Dada also referenced the Livelihood Economic Empowerment Programme, which equips participants with practical business and entrepreneurial skills.
She added that the ministry continues to support women through its Micro Enterprise Support Initiative, which provides start-up assistance for small businesses.
According to her, these programmes help women develop sustainable livelihoods while contributing to economic development within their communities.
The commissioner also noted that the ministry promotes women’s participation in agriculture and supports initiatives that encourage female entrepreneurship.
She further explained that WAPA remains committed to advocacy efforts aimed at addressing Gender-Based Violence and promoting safe and inclusive environments for women.
In her remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, emphasised the importance of empowering women for long-term economic growth.
She explained that the HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0 was designed to equip women with practical skills and professional networks.
According to Onyeali-Ikpe, the programme will also create opportunities for women to develop businesses and strengthen their financial independence.
She noted that empowering women contributes to stronger families, sustainable communities and inclusive economic growth.
The event also featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening collaboration between stakeholders supporting women’s empowerment initiatives.
Among the dignitaries present at the event was the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem.
Industry leaders and female entrepreneurs also attended the programme to celebrate the initiative and explore opportunities for further collaboration.
Participants noted that programmes such as the HerFidelity initiative play an important role in supporting women’s professional growth and entrepreneurial development.
They also emphasised the need for continued partnerships between financial institutions, government agencies and private sector organisations.
Observers at the event highlighted the importance of initiatives that encourage financial inclusion and support women in building sustainable businesses.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that the programme will expand opportunities for women across Lagos and contribute to stronger economic participation.
The launch concluded with a renewed commitment by partners to strengthen programmes that empower women and support inclusive development across the state.
