Lagos to Sustain Campaign to Reduce Employment Rate

Fadekemi Ajakaiye 

Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu said current efforts to boost entrepreneurship is aimed at lowering high youth unemployment rate and positively growing the economy.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony for artisans and tradesmen in Lagos, Sanwo-Olu reassured there was an ongoing campaign aimed at assisting Lagos residents in securing well-paying employment and acquiring world-class skills, with the objective of decreasing the nation’s unemployment rate.

He stated that the government was committed to equipping artisans and tradesmen with the necessary skill sets to deliver quality services, safeguard their standard of living, and contribute to the development of a more robust and resilient Nigerian economy.

His words: “The world is changing quickly. Technology is getting better, and people want different things. The skills you have learned will help you keep up with these changes and find new opportunities. You now have the knowledge and skills to do greater things. You are the backbone of our economy. You make things, fix things, and create beautiful and useful things. By getting better at your jobs, you are not only helping yourselves, but you are also helping Lagos State grow and prosper. We are committed to helping you do well. We have trained over 7,400 people like you, and we have given many of you tools and money to start or grow your businesses. We are also working with businesses to create more opportunities for you.”

He stated that by providing them with essential knowledge, practical skills, and an innovative mindset, they are not only enhancing their livelihoods but also playing a vital role in developing a competitive workforce that will drive Lagos into a new era of advancement. He reiterated, “You are our vehicle to building a brighter tomorrow.” A total of 1,200 individuals have received upskilling, including 800 artisans and 400 tradesmen. The training programmes span across the three Senatorial districts of Lagos State. He also announced an increase in the annual subvention to the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans (LASCOTA) from N12 million to N15 million, and mentioned that the association will receive a new bus.

Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, described the Up-skilling of Artisans and Tradesmen initiative as a noteworthy socio-economic intervention by the State Government. The initiative ,he noted exemplifies the commitment of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration to ensure that practicing artisans swiftly adapt to the evolving dynamics of their respective trades. He remarked, “The Up-skilling of Artisans and Tradesmen training is designed to equip artisans with essential technical and entrepreneurial skills, thereby enhancing their efficiency and productivity to enable them to compete effectively in the marketplace.”

According to him, the training ensure that artisans become 21st Century complaints in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S. plus development Agenda which includes; Social inclusion, Gender-equality and Youth Empowerment .The theme “Building a brighter Tomorrow: Through skills and innovation” of Up-skilling of Artisans and Tradesmen graduating ceremony reveal the focus of the Government to grow and support Micro, Small and medium enterprises through skills development in Lagos State.”

According to him, the ceremony was unique because a total number of 1,200 graduating trainees (800 Artisans and 400 Tradesmen) will be empowered with modern equipment for financial sustainably.  

The training, he further explained was held simultaneously in three centers namely; Government Technical College, Agidingbi, Ikotun and Ikorodu areas of Lagos State. He said the training commenced on July 26, and ended on September22 a period of 8 weeks.
The highlight of the event was the award presentation to the outstanding artisans and tradesmen who were found worthy of being commended.