The Lagos State Government has empowered over 5,300 youths and women who graduated from its state-sponsored skill acquisition program.
The graduation ceremony, which took place on Friday, marks the beginning of a new chapter for the graduates, who have acquired practical skills in various vocational fields.
The graduates were trained in a diverse range of skills, including fashion design, welding, carpentry, cosmetology, aluminum fabrication, vulcanizing, and more. This program, which is an initiative under the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), is part of the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment and poverty alleviation.
In his address to the graduates, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu congratulated the trainees on their achievement but reminded them that technical skill alone is not enough for success.
He stressed the importance of discipline, perseverance, and integrity, stating, “These qualities will shape how far they go and how well they sustain what they’ve built.”
The Governor highlighted his administration’s commitment to creating opportunities and promised to continue investing in such programs. He noted that the true value of these initiatives lies in how the beneficiaries utilize them to create meaningful careers and businesses. Some graduates will start small businesses, while others will expand what they’ve already begun. Each one now has the tools and the responsibility to create something meaningful for themselves and for others, he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his belief in the potential of the new graduates, noting that many global businesses started with a single skill and a clear purpose.
He expressed optimism that similar success stories could emerge from Lagos.
This recent graduation adds to the state government’s impressive record of empowering its citizens. In the last five years, over 30,000 people have graduated from the state’s 19 skills acquisition centers. The government has also consistently provided startup tools and certificates to enable graduates to launch their businesses immediately and contribute to the state’s economy.
The Governor concluded by congratulating the graduates and urging them to make this count, not just for today, but for the future you’re building.