In a bold step toward combating youth unemployment and fostering inclusive economic growth, the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment has launched a new entrepreneurship training initiative targeted at young people living in underserved and blighted areas of the state.
EpeInsights reports that the pilot phase of the programme was officially flagged off on Thursday at the Alimosho Local Government Secretariat, signaling the beginning of a broader vision to empower youth in communities often excluded from mainstream development efforts.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, highlighted the urgency of bridging opportunity gaps and restoring hope in marginalised communities.
“This initiative is not just about training; it is about transformation,” the Commissioner said.
“We are equipping young people with practical vocational skills, entrepreneurship development, digital literacy, access to finance, and mentorship. True development must be inclusive.”
He further noted that the programme aligns with the Lagos State Government’s strategic vision for inclusive economic development and reflects Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to a people-centred administration.
In his welcome remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Esv. Olayinka Adebayo Wasiu, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable development.
He emphasized that the initiative was designed to reach areas that have historically been underrepresented in economic growth.
“Our youths are the heartbeat of our future, and we are intentional about investing in their potential,” Esv. Olayinka stated.
“This programme is about unlocking new pathways to prosperity and helping young people lift themselves and their families out of poverty.”
He also stressed that the Ministry is not only focused on training but also on building a robust ecosystem to support business incubation, mentorship, and access to capital, ensuring that beneficiaries are connected to viable market opportunities.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Executive Chairman of Alimosho Local Government, Hon. Akinpelu Johnson, applauded the Ministry for choosing Alimosho, the most populous local government area in Lagos for the pilot phase.
He described the programme as a game changer capable of reaching thousands of youths through free vocational training, startup support, incubation services, and job placements.
Hon. Akinpelu pledged full support for the initiative and expressed plans to replicate and expand the programme across more communities within the council.
“We still have many young men and women in need of meaningful government intervention,” he said. “This is a welcome development, and I commend Hon. Ajigbotafe for his visionary leadership in building a more self-reliant and inclusive society.”
The initiative is expected to create ripple effects across the state, driving economic empowerment, reducing poverty, and fostering innovation at the grassroots level.
