The Ibeju-Lekki Local Government has commenced the screening exercise for its flagship Career Accelerator Programme (CAP), a transformative youth empowerment initiative designed to equip young people with practical, industry-relevant skills for employment, entrepreneurship and long-term career success.
Epe Insights reports that the screening exercise marks the first phase of the six-month Ibeju-Lekki Career Accelerator Programme, which seeks to prepare participants for emerging opportunities within the rapidly developing Ibeju-Lekki corridor.
The initiative reflects the administration of the Executive Chairman, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, to invest in human capital development by empowering youths with the knowledge and competencies required to thrive in today’s competitive economy.
As industries continue to expand across Ibeju-Lekki, including the Lekki Deep Sea Port, Lekki Free Trade Zone, Dangote Refinery and other commercial hubs, the programme is expected to create a pipeline of skilled local talents ready to take advantage of available employment opportunities.
Speaking during the screening exercise, Hon. Olowa described the Career Accelerator Programme as more than a training initiative, noting that it is a strategic investment in the future of young people across the local government.
He explained that the screening process is not solely about selecting participants but also about helping applicants understand the purpose, expectations and life-changing opportunities the programme offers.
The chairman urged prospective participants to evaluate their career ambitions carefully and ensure that the programme aligns with their personal and professional goals.
According to him, the programme requires commitment, discipline and determination, as participants will undergo six months of intensive learning, practical assignments and personal development.
Hon. Olowa stressed that the initiative has been carefully structured to bridge the gap between education and employment by providing skills that employers and business owners increasingly demand.
He noted that empowering young people with relevant skills remains one of the most effective ways to reduce unemployment, promote self-reliance and stimulate local economic growth.
The Ibeju-Lekki Career Accelerator Programme focuses on five core areas that are critical to success in the modern economy.
Participants will receive comprehensive training in Digital Literacy, enabling them to confidently use technology and digital tools in today’s workplace.
The programme also provides practical knowledge in Entrepreneurship, equipping participants with the skills needed to establish, manage and grow successful businesses.
Another key component is Communication Skills, where participants will develop effective speaking, writing and interpersonal abilities required in professional environments.
Training in Financial Education will expose participants to budgeting, savings, financial planning, investment awareness and responsible money management.
The final pillar, Professional Growth, is designed to strengthen leadership qualities, workplace ethics, career planning and personal development.
According to the chairman, the combination of these five learning areas will produce well-rounded individuals capable of excelling in both paid employment and entrepreneurial ventures.
He emphasised that the programme is intended to build confidence, encourage innovation and prepare participants to compete successfully in local and global job markets.
Hon. Olowa expressed optimism that graduates of the programme would become ambassadors of excellence, contributing meaningfully to the economic development of Ibeju-Lekki and Lagos State.
He added that investing in youth development today will create a stronger workforce capable of supporting the area’s rapid industrial and commercial expansion.
Education and development stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a practical response to youth unemployment and the growing demand for skilled professionals.
They noted that programmes combining technical knowledge with personal development are increasingly important in preparing young people for evolving workplace realities.
Community leaders also commended the local government for prioritising capacity building instead of short-term interventions, describing the programme as a sustainable investment in human capital.
The screening exercise represents the beginning of an intensive journey that will expose successful applicants to mentorship, practical learning and career guidance throughout the six-month programme.
Upon completion, participants are expected to possess the confidence, technical competence and entrepreneurial mindset needed to pursue rewarding careers or establish successful businesses.
The Ibeju-Lekki Career Accelerator Programme stands as one of the flagship youth empowerment initiatives of the Olowa administration, reinforcing the council’s commitment to developing skilled, innovative and self-reliant young people.
As the programme progresses, expectations remain high that it will produce a new generation of professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders equipped to drive sustainable development and economic prosperity across Ibeju-Lekki.
