In a meaningful stride towards youth empowerment and technological advancement, the Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly recently spearheaded a transformative initiative, offering 200 young Lagosians free, cutting-edge ICT training. The four-month programme, tailored to align with both global standards and local industry needs, promises to equip participants aged 18 to 35 with the practical skills to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
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A Vision for Empowerment by the Deputy Speaker
At a well-attended press briefing in Alausa, the Honourable Deputy Speaker reiterated the intrinsic value of equipping young graduates with tangible skills—not just academic certificates. “Possessing a degree alone can no longer guarantee employment,” she said, stressing that digital literacy and hands-on competence are now essential to unlock opportunities both at home and abroad.
Underlining the importance of meaningful learning, she stated, “This initiative is not merely about instruction; it’s about creating self-reliant youths who can innovate, create jobs, and solve real problems in their communities.”
In-Depth Training and Industry Exposure
The training curriculum is comprehensive, covering areas such as web development, software applications, digital marketing, and other in-demand ICT domains. These sessions are facilitated by seasoned professionals who combine classroom theory with practical, project-based learning.
To ensure all-round development, the programme includes workshops, peer learning sessions, networking opportunities, and engagement with tech industry mentors. Participants will also undergo work placements upon completion, allowing them to experience real-world work environments—a crucial segue from training to employment.
Inclusivity and Support for Participants
The Deputy Speaker emphasised that the initiative was deliberately inclusive, targeting youths across all five geopolitical divisions of Lagos State. Those between 18 and 35 years old possessing LASRRA (Lagos State Residents Registration Agency) cards were invited to apply. To ensure financial accessibility, trainees are to receive stipends, easing the burden of displacement or transition during the learning period.
Investing in the Future: Funding and Collaboration
With over ₦400 million allocated to the programme, the state government signalled its serious commitment to sustainable youth development and long-term economic revitalisation. The funding underscores how seriously the administration takes the digital transformation of its young workforce.
While specific implementing partners were not named, it’s believed the Deputy Speaker’s office collaborated with qualified training organisations and consulting firms to deliver the programme effectively. This public-private synergy adds depth, credibility, and alignment with industry standards.
The Bigger Picture: Context in Lagos’s Digital Strategy
This training aligns with broader state and federal efforts to foster digital inclusivity and innovation. It echoes initiatives like the LAG-UP (Lagos State Upskill Programme)—a partnership with GFA Technologies and Wema Bank that has empowered tens of thousands with digital and vocational skills.
Additionally, the state government has embarked on ambitious plans to empower up to one million youths with skills in cybersecurity, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and programming through the Eko Digital programme. Across ministries, similar schemes—such as free digital entrepreneurship training for over 1,000 graduates and the Job Initiative Lagos—demonstrate a cohesive, state-wide commitment to building a digitally competent generation.
Why This Matters
- Bridging the Skills Gap: Nigeria’s youth unemployment persists partly due to a mismatch between academic qualifications and market-relevant skills. Programmes like this fill that gap thoughtfully.
- Economic Multipliers: Empowered youths become creators—not just job seekers—but entrepreneurs and innovators who drive economic growth and community development.
- Digital Inclusion: By providing access and stipend support, the initiative ensures all youths—regardless of background—can participate.
- Forward-Looking Governance: This approach signals a shift from short-term relief to long-term capability building, aligning with global trends in economic digitalisation.
Looking Ahead
As the batch of 200 youths progresses through the programme, attention will now turn to measuring outcomes: job placements, startup formations, and the ripple effects of these trained individuals in their communities. It’s a pilot with the potential to scale—setting the stage for inclusive digital transformation across Lagos.
The emphasis, going forward, must centre on tracking success stories, gathering feedback for curriculum updates, and expanding access to a wider number of youths. By doing that, Lagos State can deepen its role as a leader in youth development and digital innovation in Nigeria and beyond.
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