13th September, 2018
The Lagos State Government has begun the construction of a Multipurpose Centre to enhance the fortunes of women in the state.
Located in Agidingbi, Ikeja, the One-Stop Centre is being constructed by the State Government as part of efforts to achieve some of the UN sustainable development goals pertaining to the empowerment/welfare of women and girls as well as poverty eradication.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the project on Thursday, Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode reiterated that the construction of the Centre was an affirmation of his administration’s commitment to social inclusion, empowerment, and protection of women.
Ambode, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Tunji Bello, assured women in the State that the One-stop centre would be speedily completed.
“This Multi-Purpose Centre, the groundbreaking of which is taking place here today, will provide the right environment and resources catering for specific needs of women and also giving succour to those experiencing different challenges. I want to assure you all of our determination to ensure that this project is delivered on schedule and complimented with the required materials and human resources.
“Let me use this opportunity to assure all our women of this administration’a commitment to ensure equal opportunity for all, irrespective of gender differences. We will also sustain the campaign against all kinds of gender-based abuse and violence by strengthening the capacity of relevant government institutions to bring perpetrators of these heinous crimes to justice,” Ambode said.
Ambode said his administration was willing and ready to partner with Non-Governmental Organisations, NGOs and Civil Society Organisations in the areas of public enlightenment, education and sensitisation in all parts of the state, adding that “our full growth potential as a State can only be achieved when both men and women are given the opportunity to contribute their quota without discrimination.”
In a message, the wife of the Governor, Bolanle Ambode, who was represented by Dr Arinola Oluwo said when the centre becomes operational, the one-stop-centre which would house another skill acquisition centre, a care-giver training institute as well as event centre would have tremendous impact on the lives of women and girls
While welcoming the guests, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Lola Akande described the Women multi-purpose Centre as another milestone in the series of creative and sustainable efforts of the current administration in the State.
According to the Commissioner, the Centre is designed to provide a wide range of services and solutions to issues pertaining to unemployment, mental health and fitness and socio-economic development of women in Lagos.
Akande said “ I am happy to tell you that this Centre will house many crucial support units, including a skill acquisition centre, Crisis management and counseling, therapy unit, playroom for children, gymnasium and entertainment hub.”
Goodwill messages were received from NGOs and development partners during the ceremony which was witnessed by all women leaders in the All progressives Congress, in Lagos and top government officials.