The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has partnered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control to organise a training programme for grassroots women entrepreneurs in Lagos.
Eko Hot News reports that the training focused on NAFDAC requirements for agricultural products, including registration, packaging, labelling, food safety, and quality control.
The programme was held at the Women Development Centre in Agege and attracted women entrepreneurs from different communities across the state.
Officials said the initiative was designed to improve the standard and marketability of products produced by small-scale women entrepreneurs.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Cecilia Dada, stated that the programme aimed to bridge knowledge gaps affecting many women-owned businesses.
She explained that many entrepreneurs possess the creativity and skills required for business growth but lack adequate knowledge of regulatory procedures and product standards.
According to her, the training exposed participants to practical steps needed to package, label, and register products appropriately.
She noted that compliance with safety and quality standards would improve business credibility and increase consumer confidence.
The Commissioner added that empowering women with technical and regulatory knowledge would strengthen economic growth and sustainable livelihoods across Lagos State.
She reaffirmed the commitment of the ministry to supporting women through empowerment programmes and capacity-building initiatives.
Representatives of NAFDAC delivered presentations on registration procedures, food safety standards, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance for small businesses.
Deputy Director, Mrs. Anselm Onuwa, and Chief Regulatory Officer, Mr. Isah Garba, guided participants through the conditions required for obtaining NAFDAC registration numbers.
The facilitators also educated attendees on product testing, proper handling, and labelling requirements for agricultural products.
Participants expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for creating platforms that support women entrepreneurs and business development.
They noted that access to proper information and training would help improve their businesses and expand market opportunities.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Ajibike Rianat Onigbanjo, commended the facilitators, organisers, and stakeholders for the successful coordination of the programme.
She stressed the importance of continuous sensitisation and training to improve product standardisation and entrepreneurship growth among women.
The Permanent Secretary also praised the Director of the Poverty Alleviation Department, Mrs. Toyin Salami, and her team for their commitment to the programme.
The event also featured an interactive sensitisation session by the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA).
A LASHMA representative, Ms. Abiodun Akintayo, educated participants on the benefits of the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme and encouraged enrollment.
The Lagos State Government reiterated its commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs through training, innovation, and sustainable economic support initiatives.
