The Rotary Club of Lagos has strengthened its support for small-scale traders in Lagos on 8 July 2026, awarding ₦6 million in interest-free grants to Sangrouse Market Association and Ifako Gbagada Market under its long-running micro-credit initiative.
Each market association received ₦3 million during the club’s first Club Assembly meeting of the 2026/2027 Rotary year, following their consistent repayment records on previous interest-free loans provided through the programme.
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The latest support forms part of the Rotary Club of Lagos micro-credit scheme, a 13-year empowerment initiative designed to help market traders expand their businesses without the pressure of interest charges.
The programme began under the leadership of then Assistant Governor Hairat Balogun, with Sangrouse Market becoming the first beneficiary.
Since its launch, the scheme has grown from an initial ₦5.2 million fund into a ₦20 million revolving support system that continues to provide financial assistance to traders.
Presenting the cheques, District Governor Rotarian Layi Abidoye highlighted the importance of sustainable community support and encouraged continued collaboration between Rotary and local communities.
The presentation was witnessed by Rotary Club of Lagos President Rotarian Olutoyin Odulate, District Governor Nominee Designate Rotarian Ehi Braimah, Assistant Governor Rotarian Margaret Olowu, and Micro-Credit Chair Rotarian Eki Eboigbe.
The initiative aligns with Rotary International’s annual theme, “Create Lasting Impact,” promoted by Rotary International President Olayinka Hakeem Babalola, who became only the second Nigerian and second African to lead the global organisation.
Beyond the micro-credit programme, the Rotary Club of Lagos continues to invest in community development projects, including school infrastructure, maternal health initiatives and youth leadership programmes across the city.
During the assembly meeting, the District Governor also announced a matching-gift incentive aimed at encouraging more members to achieve Paul Harris Fellow recognition, supporting the wider work of The Rotary Foundation.
Established in 1961 as the second Rotary club in Nigeria, the Rotary Club of Lagos has maintained a strong focus on improving livelihoods through targeted social investment and community-based interventions.
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The latest ₦6 million grant represents another milestone in the club’s effort to strengthen local entrepreneurship and provide practical support for traders working to build sustainable businesses.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
