In a strategic move to bridge the gender economic gap, the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has reaffirmed its dedication to female financial autonomy at the launch of the ‘HerFidelity’ Apprenticeship Programme 2.0 (HAP 2.0).
The event, hosted by Fidelity Bank Plc on Thursday, March 5, 2026, served as a landmark celebration of International Women’s Day, uniting government powerhouses and private sector leaders at Fidelity Place, Victoria Island.
A Synergy for Sustainable Growth
Speaking at the launch, the Honourable Commissioner for WAPA, Hon. (Mrs.) Bolaji Cecilia Dada, lauded the bank’s initiative as a blueprint for private-sector involvement in social development. She emphasized that the state’s THEMES Plus Agenda, under Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, views women’s empowerment not just as a social goal, but as an economic necessity.
“Partnerships between the government and the private sector remain critical in creating opportunities that empower women and strengthen communities,” Hon. Dada stated. “Through our Skills Acquisition Centres, we are ensuring women are equipped with the vocational and business management skills required to stay self-reliant in a competitive market.”
Expanding the Empowerment Toolkit
The Commissioner highlighted that the Ministry’s efforts extend beyond basic training. Through the Livelihood Economic Empowerment Programme and the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative, the state is actively providing start-up support and seed funding for small businesses, increased female participation in agricultural value chains, and a rigorous advocacy against Gender-Based Violence to ensure a safe environment for female entrepreneurs to thrive.
Bridging the Skills Gap
Reiterating the bank’s vision, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, noted that HAP 2.0 is specifically engineered to provide practical, hands-on experience.
“Empowering women remains a key pathway to sustainable economic growth,” Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe explained. She noted that the apprenticeship model focuses on building resilient networks and practical skill sets that translate directly into entrepreneurship and shared prosperity.
Formalizing the Future
The high-profile event reached a crescendo with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), formalizing the synergy between the Lagos State Government and Fidelity Bank.
The ceremony was witnessed by prominent figures, including the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, alongside various captains of industry and female entrepreneurs committed to driving the state’s economic participation forward.
