LAGOS, NIGERIA — The Lagos State Government has empowered 6,190 residents with free vocational and entrepreneurial skills through its skills acquisition programme, a move aimed at boosting livelihoods, reducing unemployment, and strengthening economic participation across the state.
The initiative, implemented by the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, targeted residents across the 20 local government areas of the state, offering training in a wide range of trades, including tailoring, hairdressing, catering, information technology, digital marketing, and various crafts. The programme is part of the state government’s broader strategy to address unemployment and equip residents with skills that enhance their employability and entrepreneurial potential.
Beneficiaries, who were selected through a transparent application process, underwent intensive training over several months, with experts and seasoned professionals providing hands-on instruction and mentorship. At the end of the training, participants were presented with certificates and starter packs to enable them to establish their own businesses or seek employment in their chosen fields.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony for the beneficiaries, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that the programme was designed to create a pipeline of skilled workers and entrepreneurs who would contribute to the state’s economic growth. He stressed that the government remains committed to providing opportunities for residents to acquire skills that will make them self-reliant and productive members of society.
“Our goal is to ensure that every Lagosian has the opportunity to acquire skills that will enable them to earn a decent living and contribute to the development of our great state. This programme is a testament to our commitment to building a prosperous Lagos where no one is left behind,” the commissioner stated.
The training programme also included modules on financial literacy, business management, and customer service, providing beneficiaries with the knowledge needed to run successful businesses. Many of the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the state government for the opportunity, describing the training as life-changing and a pathway to financial independence.
The programme is part of the Lagos State Government’s broader effort to tackle unemployment, which remains a significant challenge across Nigeria, with the National Bureau of Statistics reporting a youth unemployment rate of over 30 percent in recent years. Initiatives such as this are expected to provide a pathway to economic empowerment and reduce the state’s dependence on formal employment.
The Lagos State Government has announced plans to expand the programme to reach more residents, with the goal of empowering 50,000 residents over the next three years. The government has also indicated that it would be exploring partnerships with private sector organisations to create internship and employment opportunities for the beneficiaries.
