Lagos State has made remarkable progress in wealth creation and job generation, benefiting over 8,000 residents in the past year.
This information was shared by Mr. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, the Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, during the annual Ministerial Press Briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja.
The briefing coincided with events celebrating the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office. It underscored the administration’s commitment to tackling unemployment and promoting inclusive economic growth throughout the state.
Mr. Ajigbotafe reported that a total of 8,633 residents benefited from strategic interventions aimed at equipping individuals with essential skills. These initiatives focused on fostering entrepreneurship and driving job creation, supporting various segments of the population, including graduates, artisans, and small business owners.
Breakdown of Achievements
Providing a detailed overview, the Commissioner revealed that 2,383 individuals participated in the Graduate Internship Placement Programme (GIPP). Additionally, 1,425 residents received Point-of-Sale (POS) machines, while 4,825 beneficiaries obtained stipends through the Federal Government’s NG-CARES Social Transfer Programme.
Mr. Ajigbotafe described the GIPP as a “resounding success,” specifically designed to combat youth unemployment. This initiative placed graduates in internships after a three-week training program focused on soft skills. Each intern received a monthly stipend of N30,000 for three months, covering transportation and basic needs, thus providing valuable work experience.
Moreover, a specialized ICT training program was introduced for unemployed graduates, equipping participants with Microsoft certification and free laptops to enhance their digital skills.
Empowerment Through Digital Transactions
The Commissioner emphasized efforts to promote digital financial inclusion by providing 1,425 residents with POS machines. This initiative encouraged cashless transactions and supported small entrepreneurs in adopting digital payment methods.
Support for Artisans and Tradesmen
Recognizing the crucial role artisans and tradesmen play in the economy, the government implemented measures to upskill this workforce segment. Governor Sanwo-Olu demonstrated his support by donating a 32-seater Hyundai bus to the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans. Additionally, three hectares of land were allocated in Badagry for constructing their secretariat.
NG-CARES Programme
The Commissioner praised the Federal Government’s NG-CARES programme, implemented in partnership with the World Bank, for its positive impact. Under this initiative, 4,825 beneficiaries from seven local government areas received stipends totaling N120,000 each over one year, selected from the Lagos State Social Register.
Mr. Ajigbotafe encouraged all beneficiaries to utilize the support wisely to enhance their livelihoods and contribute to Lagos State’s economic growth.
Commitment to Economic Development
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to reducing unemployment through targeted interventions. He emphasized that these initiatives reflect the government’s resolve to empower residents and build a more inclusive, prosperous Lagos State.