Alimosho Leads as Lagos Flags Off Youth Empowerment Programme
Kehinde Adeleye
In a bold move to tackle youth unemployment and foster inclusive development, the Lagos State Government has kicked off a new entrepreneurship initiative targeted at underserved communities starting with Alimosho Local Government.
The pilot phase of the programme was officially launched on Thursday at the Alimosho Secretariat by the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, marking a significant step in expanding economic opportunities for young people across the state.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, emphasized the need to close the opportunity gap and bring hope to youths in disadvantaged areas. He described the initiative as a holistic empowerment platform offering vocational skills, entrepreneurial training, digital literacy, mentorship, and access to startup funding.
“This is more than just skill acquisition. It’s about building capacity for self-reliance and sustainable impact in local communities,” the Commissioner noted, affirming that the programme aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision for people-centered and inclusive governance.
The Permanent Secretary, Esv. Olayinka Adebayo Wasiu, in his remarks, reinforced the government’s commitment to long-term youth development, noting that the programme is designed to create genuine economic opportunities for young people who have often been excluded from traditional policy considerations.
“Our youths are central to the future of Lagos. Through this initiative, we’re building a bridge from poverty to prosperity one skill, one idea at a time,” he said.
Highlighting the significance of the pilot location, Alimosho Local Government Chairman, Hon. Akinpelu Johnson, lauded the Ministry for choosing the area, home to the largest youth population in Lagos.
He disclosed that the programme would offer free vocational training, startup support, business incubation, and job placement opportunities for thousands of young residents.
“This initiative is timely and needed,” he said. “We still have many youths in need of tailored interventions. I commend Hon. Ajigbotafe for driving such a purposeful vision and pledge our full support to see this expand across all Alimosho communities.”
Participants were encouraged to fully embrace the opportunity and become role models of innovation, resilience, and community transformation.
