- Lagos Launches New Initiative to Empower Youths
- Ajigbotafe stressed the urgency of bridging the opportunity gap
- He urged participants to make the most of the resources provided
In line with its mandate to address youth unemployment and promote inclusive economic growth, the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment has launched a new entrepreneurship training initiative aimed at empowering youths living in blighted and underprivileged areas of the state.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the initiative was officially launched on Thursday at the Alimosho Local Government Secretariat, signaling the start of the pilot phase of the programme.
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Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, stressed the urgency of bridging the opportunity gap and restoring hope to marginalized communities that have long been excluded from mainstream development efforts.
According to him, the programme has been carefully designed to equip young residents of these communities with hands-on vocational skills, entrepreneurial training, digital literacy, and access to funding and mentorship.
“We believe real development must be inclusive. This programme is not just about training; it is about transformation. It’s about giving young people the tools to succeed and become catalysts for change in their communities,” he stated.
The Commissioner further explained that the initiative forms a vital part of the Lagos State Government’s broader plan for inclusive economic development and social upliftment, in line with Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo Olu’s people-focused governance.
Earlier, in his welcome remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Esv. Olayinka Adebayo Wasiu, reaffirmed the administration’s strong commitment to youth empowerment, job creation, and long-term development.
He noted that the launch of the initiative demonstrates the government’s determination to provide meaningful opportunities in areas that have been historically underrepresented in economic planning.
“Our young people are the heartbeat of our future, and we are intentional about investing in their growth,” Esv. Olayinka remarked. “Through this programme, we aim to create pathways to prosperity by empowering youth with the skills and entrepreneurial mindset needed to lift themselves and their families out of poverty.”
He also highlighted that the Ministry is focused not only on training but also on building strong links between participants and viable market opportunities through business incubation, mentorship, and access to capital.
He urged participants to make the most of the resources provided and to become role models of resilience and innovation within their communities.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Executive Chairman of Alimosho Local Government, Hon. Akinpelu Johnson, praised the Ministry for selecting Alimosho, Lagos State’s most populous local government as the launch site for the pilot phase.
He noted that the programme would provide free vocational training, startup support, business incubation, and job placement opportunities to thousands of young people.
Hon. Akinpelu pledged full support for the programme, describing it as a critical step towards economic and social empowerment in Alimosho. He also committed to expanding the initiative across more communities within the local government.
“We still have a significant number of youths, men, and women in need of targeted government intervention. This programme is timely and commendable.
I applaud Hon. Ajigbotafe for his visionary approach to building a more self-reliant and inclusive society, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religion,” he said.
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