Edo State Govt Partners with LAPO to Empower Civil Servants

The Edo state government has partnered with LAPO to Empower Civil Servants and the grassroots economy.

Edotoday reports that the Edo State Government has reaffirmed its strong support for homegrown initiatives and grassroots economic empowerment through strategic public-private partnerships aimed at increasing financial inclusion.

This commitment was made known by the Edo State Head of Service (HOS), Dr. Anthony Okungbowa Esq., during a courtesy meeting with the management of Lift Above Poverty Organization (LAPO) Microfinance Bank at his office in Government House, Benin City.

Dr. Okungbowa emphasized the state government’s continuous drive to develop locally rooted solutions under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, describing him as a leader passionate about people-first governance and grassroots development.

“Our Governor is very unique. He believes in homegrown systems, in the way he runs government, in the way he empowers people, and in how he has structured the Civil and Public Service. That principle has always guided him, and this is why initiatives like LAPO, which started here in Edo, deserve priority, visibility and prominence,” he stated.

He said the government welcomes LAPO’s renewed engagement and described the proposed partnership as a vital step toward expanding the State’s public sector productivity and the financial well-being of its workforce. The HOS further assured the LAPO team of the government’s full support in advancing access to financial services for Civil and Public Servants in the State.

“We will support this venture to ensure its success. Yes, there are many financial institutions, but LAPO stands out. It has a good story and I believe it will deliver in a unique way,” Dr. Okungbowa said.

He, however, advised LAPO to remain competitive in both its products and services to attract genuine interest from government workers.

“This is a highly competitive space. What you put on the table, the offerings, will determine how our officers engage with you. It’s not just about business, impact matters too,” he added.

Dr. Okungbowa also acknowledged LAPO’s long-standing history and credibility within Edo State and the wider Nigerian microfinance industry. He described the organization as a trusted institution built on integrity, with a leadership culture that should be emulated.

“When LAPO comes on stream to offer services, we know the quality that went into building it and how well LAPO has proven itself over time,” he said.

“Undisputedly, LAPO has been a leader in the microfinance industry in Nigeria. I know the Founder personally. His work ethics and integrity are the very things every worker should emulate. I have a lot of respect for him,” the Head of Service added.

In response, the Head of Communication at LAPO Microfinance Bank, Mr. Oluremi Akande, expressed appreciation for the State Government’s warm welcome and pledged the institution’s continued commitment to empowering civil servants and grassroots communities in Edo State.

“LAPO is a household name in Edo State. We are proud of our roots here and the transformative leadership of the State Government. We recognize the Government’s efforts to improve Civil and Public Servants’ welfare, and we believe public-private partnerships such as this is crucial to sustaining that progress,” Mr. Akande said.

He explained that LAPO’s reengagement with the State Government is focused on making affordable financial products available to public workers to help them manage their financial obligations without unnecessary pressure.

“This visit is to reintroduce our business through your office and make Civil and Public Servants aware of loan products that are accessible, fairly priced and tailored to improve their well-being. A happy Civil Servant means better productivity and sustainable service to the State,” he said.

Mr. Akande also highlighted LAPO’s long-standing investment in economic empowerment and social welfare. He revealed that LAPO has awarded over 3,000 scholarships and offered skills training to more than 1,500 individuals, many of whom are from Edo State.

“We are passionate about economic empowerment and social intervention. LAPO has awarded scholarships to over 3,000 people and provided skills training to over 1,500 beneficiaries, many of whom are from Edo State,” he added.

The partnership aims to promote local business development, drive financial literacy, and support the economic stability of workers. By encouraging affordable loan access and offering capacity-building opportunities, this initiative supports both high-yield financial inclusion goals and public sector transformation efforts.

With Governor Okpebholo’s administration placing importance on grassroots-focused policies and LAPO’s proven record in the microfinance industry, this collaboration is expected to deliver tangible results for thousands of families across Edo State.