During the visit led by the NNEW Vice-President, Mrs Bolanle Edwards, she commended Honourable Meranda for her trailblazing achievement and emphasized the significance of her leadership in inspiring women across Lagos and Nigeria. She highlighted NNEW’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs through capacity building, advocacy, and networking opportunities.

“Your ascension to this esteemed position is a testament to your dedication and hard work. We believe that under your leadership, the Lagos State House of Assembly will champion policies that foster an enabling environment for women-owned businesses to thrive,” said Edwards.

Hon. Speaker Meranda expressed her gratitude for the visit and reaffirmed her commitment to supporting initiatives that promote women’s economic empowerment. She acknowledged the pivotal role of women entrepreneurs in driving economic growth and assured NNEW of her readiness to collaborate on policies and programs that enhance their contributions to the state’s economy.

“I am honored by your visit and I do not take it for granted. Please feel free to reach out to my office as I operate open door policy. You can reach out through phone calls, test message, emails”. She said with organizations like NNEW, a more inclusive and prosperous Lagos where women-owned businesses flourish ca be created.

The Chairperson of the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) Planning Committee, Mrs. Apollonia Nwanafio, seized the opportunity to invite the Speaker to the NNEW 2025 IWD Celebration scheduled to be held on the 13th of March, 2025, at NECA House.

Other members on the courtesy visit are Mrs. Modupe Eka, Uloma Adewusi, the Executive Secretary, Mr. Adeniyi Adeyanju and Temitope Ibrahim, Account Officer

The meeting concluded with both parties’ understanding of a collaborative effort to address challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and to advocate for policies that promote gender equality in the business sector.