More than 450 women engaged in trade and vocational businesses across Lagos State have received financial support and business development assistance through an empowerment programme organised by the Humanity Family Foundation for Peace and Development (HUFFPED), with support from the French Embassy in Nigeria. The event was held on Tuesday at the Police Officers’ Wives Association Hall in Ikeja as part of activities marking International Women’s Day.
Speaking at the event, Pierre Louis Bonnel, a representative of the French Embassy, highlighted the embassy’s ongoing support for civil society organisations that focus on gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. “From 2024 to 2026, the French Embassy has supported more than 20 civil society organisations across Nigeria with projects aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls economically,” Bonnel said.
He emphasised the significance of the initiative, noting that many beneficiaries had demonstrated the capacity to make strategic decisions about their businesses and plan for future growth. “These women now have economic power, enabling them to develop strategies, expand their businesses, and employ more hands in the coming years,” Bonnel added.
HUFFPED Executive Director Henry Adenigba explained that the initiative is part of the Household Economy Strengthening and Resilience project, funded by the French Embassy. “We are providing support to boost the businesses and vocations these women are already engaged in. The project has run for about a year, including capacity-building interventions and monitoring activities,” Adenigba said.
Beneficiaries received business-specific tools and equipment to enhance productivity. “Food vendors received materials to grow their businesses, garment makers were given sewing machines and stoning tools for accessory production, and barbers received equipment to serve more customers,” Adenigba explained. “This is not charity; it is support to help them sustain and grow their livelihoods.”
Adekemi Adeyeye, HUFFPED’s Executive Director of Finance and Administration, advised the beneficiaries to grow their businesses responsibly and safeguard their capital. “Do not deplete your capital. Expand your businesses, and when we evaluate progress, you will be able to show real results,” she said.
Beneficiaries shared their experiences, expressing gratitude for the programme. Oluwaseun Abibat, a barber, said, “I am excited to have attended the training. It taught me financial independence and savings, and I look forward to growing my business further.”
Jimoh Rashidat, a food vendor, added, “Through HUFFPED’s Village Savings and Loans Association scheme, I took a loan of N150,000, invested it in my business, and it has grown significantly. I pray God blesses the organisation for these opportunities.”
Similarly, Adeniran Funmilayo, a participant from Kosofe, shared, “The programme taught me financial literacy, marketing, and record-keeping. I have taken loans multiple times to support my business and children’s education. HUFFPED has truly empowered us to manage both business and family finances.”
The initiative underscores the importance of sustainable, skill-based support for women entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the tools, knowledge, and resources to expand their businesses and improve livelihoods across Lagos State.