By Olatunbosun Obafemi
In a strategic push to combat youth unemployment and bridge the digital skills gap, the Lagos State Government, in collaboration with GIZ SKYE (Skills Development for Youth Employment), has launched a training programme targeting over 530 unemployed youths in the state.
The initiative, rolled out under the Industry Insider Series at the Eko Job Centre in Owutu, Ikorodu, is designed to equip participants with practical competencies in job-readiness, digital literacy, and professional communication—key skills for success in today’s competitive job market.
Speaking at the launch, the Honourable Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, represented by Permanent Secretary ESV Olayinka Adebayo Wasiu, emphasized the programme’s focus on digital inclusion and youth empowerment. “This training will give participants the confidence to apply for jobs, present themselves professionally, and thrive in workplace environments,” Olayinka noted.
Aligned with the state’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, which prioritizes youth development and inclusive economic growth, the programme features 15 training sessions over eight months, led by professionals from various industries. Topics include CV writing, workplace etiquette, digital tools, and interview preparation.
Participants will also benefit from mentorship and practical engagement, aimed at fostering both personal development and job market readiness.
The Eko Job Centre has undergone significant upgrades, supported by GIZ SKYE, to provide a conducive learning environment. The centre now plays a central role in the state’s employment services network, which includes five Job Centres across Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe.
Commissioner Ajigbotafe reiterated the government’s commitment to youth empowerment through structured training and innovation. “We believe in the power of skills and guidance to transform lives. With the right tools, these youths can become active contributors to the growth of Lagos and the nation,” he said.
With this initiative, Lagos State continues to assert its leadership in strategic workforce planning, providing young people with opportunities to access gainful employment and participate meaningfully in the digital economy.
