In a groundbreaking revelation, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, has lauded the NG-CARES initiative as a powerhouse driving social inclusion in Lagos State.
Speaking at the official certificate presentation to outgoing beneficiaries of the NG-CARES (DLI 1.2) Labour Intensive Public Workfare at the Onigbongbo LCDA Secretariat, Ikeja, Dr. Finnih emphasized the pivotal role of the program in creating opportunities for citizens’ empowerment.
Dr. Finnih highlighted the government’s core priority of achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through initiatives like NG-CARES, aiming to alleviate the local impacts of the pandemic by safeguarding the livelihoods of vulnerable households.
Targeting predominantly unemployed and unskilled youth and women aged 18 to 45, the program has spanned across all 57 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of Lagos State.
Impactful Approach
The Labour-Intensive Public Workfare, implemented by the Office of Sustainable Development Goals, has significantly enhanced the socio-economic well-being of vulnerable members of society. Dr. Finnih explained that the primary objective is to provide immediate employment opportunities in social sectors, addressing the emergency constraints caused by the loss of labor income due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Success Stories and Milestones
Dr. Finnih proudly shared the program’s achievements, graduating 1,716 beneficiaries from various communities, collaborating with organizations such as LAWMA, Public Works, Ministry of Transportation, LASPARK, Primary Health Care, and other intervention agencies. She emphasized that the initiative not only provides employment but also enhances the capacity of participating youth and women.
Government Commitment
The Special Adviser underlined Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to providing opportunities for citizens, implementing strategies to expand the socio-economic safety net, and reduce the burden on vulnerable communities. She expressed confidence that partnerships with the public and private sectors will continue to birth new opportunities, making interventions like NG-CARES pivotal towards building a prosperous and peaceful society.
Local Impact
Chairman Olakunle Oladotun of Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area acknowledged the initiative’s dual impact, improving beneficiaries’ standards of living while fostering their responsibility as contributing members to the state’s development through social services.
Government Recognition
Hon. Olakunle extended gratitude to the state government for enrolling new beneficiaries, highlighting the government’s commitment to involving more vulnerable Lagosians, ultimately building a productive society.
Recognition and Employment Opportunities
In a remarkable gesture, Hon. Olakunle recognized the outstanding efforts and dedication of three outgoing beneficiaries, offering them immediate employment. This move not only underscores the success of NG-CARES but also reinforces the transformative impact of social intervention schemes on individual lives and community development.
The NG-CARES initiative, spearheaded by dedicated government officials and embraced by local leaders, is evidently a catalyst for positive change, shaping the future of Lagos State towards inclusivity and prosperity.
