A total of 2,680 business owners across Lagos State have received cash grants through the NG-CARES (Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus) programme.
The empowerment was part of the state government’s efforts to support residents impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The initiative, implemented by the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, aims to revive small businesses and uplift vulnerable groups affected by the economic fallout of the pandemic.
Speaking at an interactive session with beneficiaries held at the Academy Hotel and Suites, Agidingbi, Ikeja, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, emphasised the significance of the intervention.
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“The pandemic disrupted not only health but also livelihoods, especially for the poor and vulnerable. The NG-CARES programme represents a swift response to restore businesses and promote recovery,” Ajigbotafe said.
He highlighted that NG-CARES is performance-based and driven by state governments, ensuring timely and effective delivery of support to underserved communities.
The programme targets vulnerable groups including the aged, chronically ill, persons with disabilities, and the urban poor.
The commissioner urged beneficiaries to invest the grants into their trades and businesses, revealing that the state government is preparing to onboard an additional 5,500 beneficiaries in the next phase of the programme.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, ESV Olayinka Adebayo Wasiu, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to inclusive development under the THEMES agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
The session was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, local government officials, and directors from the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment.
