WAPA Takes “Ounje L’Ore Awo” Nutrition Programme To Women In Lagos Island Division

The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), on Friday, took the “Ounje L’Ore Awo” programme, a comprehensive food and nutrition initiative aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of women and families across the state to the Lagos Island division.

 

Commissioner for WAPA, Hon. (Mrs.) Bolaji Dada, who led the charge at the programme targeted at 120 women in Lagos Island Local Government Area, emphasised that the programme aligns with the Federal Food and Nutrition initiative and WAPA’s commitment to combating malnutrition and promoting healthy eating across the state. “Women play a vital role in the family, particularly in ensuring nutritious meals at home,” Dada noted.

She highlighted WAPA’s outstanding performance, achieving the highest ranking among 13 government agencies on the 2023 Food & Nutrition policy implementation, with a notable 66.93% score in the national ranking.

Reflecting on the programme’s guiding principle, “You are what you eat,” the Commissioner explained the health impacts of good nutrition, stating, “Proper nutrition is crucial for physical, mental, and emotional health. By making conscious food choices, we can build healthier, happier communities across Lagos State.”

The “Ounje L’Ore Awo” programme has already reached several communities, including Ikorodu, Eti-Osa, Alimosho, and Somolu, with plans to expand to Badagry LGA, Badagry West, and Olorunda LCDAs in the coming weeks.

Earlier this year, WAPA was a key participant in launching Lagos State’s new five-year Multisectoral Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition (2025-2029), demonstrating the Ministry’s dedication to advancing food security and health across Lagos.

In her goodwill message at the event, the Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Job Creation, Princess Omolara Lawal Olumegbon, who commended the Ministry for bringing the initiative to the Lagos Island division, called for the capturing of more residents of the division in all of its programmes and policies.

As part of the event, nutritionist and food expert, Shola Malomo encouraged attendees to practice mindful eating, stressing the importance of balanced meals and food hygiene.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Oluyemi Kalesanwo, recognised the commitment of the Lagos State government to the development of families, households and every citizen.

Mrs. Kalesanwo also urged beneficiaries to complement the state government’s efforts by staying healthy, eating well and influencing members of their families to do the same to ensure a Greater Lagos for all.

Attendees included notable figures such as Lagos Island APC Chairman, A.G.O Sodiq and Taofeek Ope, Secretary of APC Lagos Island Local Government.