Lagos State government has reiterated commitment to solving the problem of youth unemployment. The Babajide Sanwo-Olu led administration said it will continuously prioritise investments in youths, by formulating policies that encourage entrepreneurial development.
Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat stated this at a National Youth Symposium with the theme,’’ Nigeria: Guiding the youth on the path of self –reliance,’’ held in Alausa Ikeja to mark his 60th birthday. Adding that the state will not relent in its efforts at tackling the issue through human capital development.
While averring to what he described as ‘scary unemployment figures’ in the country, he said the state has put measures in place to confront the challenges and surmount it.
Dr. Hamzat said, ‘’We have tackled the jobs situation with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), which has since 2016 been providing financial assistance and resources to young entrepreneurs. Through this fund, the government offers very low-interest loans and grants, empowering youths to start their businesses. This initiative not only promotes entrepreneurship but also helps create jobs within the community, driving economic growth.
From left, Panelists, Dr Funmilola Tella; Ms Zainab Alayande; wife of the Deputy the Governor, Mrs Oluremi Hamzat her husband Dr Obafemi; Moderator of the Panelists, Prof. Olubola Babalola; Representative, Lagos State Governor, Mr Sam Egube and Lagos State Commissioner for Agric, Ms Ruth Olusanya during the Kadri Obafemi Hamzat (KOH) 60th National Youth Symposium in Lagos on Saturday (28/09/24)
‘’Lagos State has a successful Skills Acquisition Programme (LASSAP) run at 19 Vocational Centres. As of the last count about two months ago, no fewer than 16,000 young people have graduated from these centres. They were not left to their own devices; they were given equipment to start their businesses. Because of what we are observing, Lagos has started Comprehensive schools again that is to further equip our youths at a young age.
‘’LASSAP offers vocational training in various trades, such as carpentry, tailoring, and digital skills. These programmes are designed to bridge the gap between education and employment.’’
The deputy governor added that the state’s Youth Leadership Development Programme (YLDP) focuses on nurturing leadership skills among young people, saying the initiative includes workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities aimed at developing the next generation of leaders.
He said, ‘’Lagos Innovates, is designed to support start-ups and innovators. By providing access to funding, mentorship, and co-working spaces, Lagos Innovates encourages creativity and entrepreneurship. This initiative is particularly crucial in a city like Lagos, where innovation can drive significant change.
“Tech Boot Camps and Training is in response to the digital revolution. We have launched various tech boot camps aimed at equipping young people with essential digital skills. From coding to digital marketing, these programmes prepare our youths for the jobs of the future, enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial potential.’’
The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, said Hamzat, was set up by the current administration to reverse what many have described as a leadership deficiency in our polity.
‘’Named after the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, a former Governor known for his commitment to education and youth development. The Academy aims to equip young people with leadership skills, entrepreneurial knowledge, and civic responsibility. The first cohort of 30 fellows has just passed out. I do not doubt that they will impact our world positively, considering the leadership skills they have acquired,’’ he said.
Earlier in his opening remarks, former Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University, Professor Olanrenwaju Fagbohun, said the Nigerian youth needs the requisite skills to compete for jobs in the global space.
He said if we are not giving them the requisite skills, it is like we are challenging them to go to the war front without giving them the skills they need to go to the war front. It not just about making positive statement or encouraging them , it about doing more of what we are doing today.’’