Olumide Kola-Lawal (OKL), an aspirant for the Lagos Central Senatorial seat, has launched a youth empowerment programme offering free enrolment and full scholarships to 1,000 young people across the district for internationally recognised Information Technology and Vocational (ITV) training courses.
The initiative was announced on March 11 during a Ramadan lecture themed “Ramadan and the Role of Youths in Building a Moral and United Society,” organised by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Surulere branch, at the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Hall in Lagos.
Speaking as the special guest at the event, Kola-Lawal said the scholarship programme is designed to equip young people with practical skills that are relevant in the global digital economy.
“My priority is connecting the grassroots to global opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs,” he said. “I remain confident that bold, people-centred ideas can still drive meaningful change.”
According to him, the programme will provide participants with internationally recognised training and certification in high-demand technology and creative fields.
The scholarship scheme will be implemented in partnership with the London Til Career Institute, an international career and professional development institution known for its work in career acceleration, innovation, and smart school technology.
Through the initiative, selected participants will receive specialised training in several digital and vocational areas including software development, UI/UX design, data analysis, cybersecurity, digital marketing, and photo and media editing.
Kola-Lawal explained that the goal of the programme is not only to train young people but also to prepare them for employment, entrepreneurship, and participation in the growing global digital marketplace.
“We must equip our youths with skills that allow them to compete globally, not just locally,” he said. “When young people have access to the right tools, they can create businesses, generate income, and contribute meaningfully to society.”
He noted that the scholarship programme represents the first phase of a broader youth development strategy aimed at expanding economic opportunities for young residents in Lagos Central.
According to him, leadership should focus on creating platforms that allow people to access opportunities rather than relying on traditional political promises.
“This initiative reflects my belief that leadership must go beyond speeches and campaigns. It must deliver practical solutions that improve lives,” he said.
Kola-Lawal also stressed the importance of bridging the opportunity gap between local talent and global digital markets. He explained that many young Nigerians possess the creativity and potential needed to succeed but often lack access to quality training and international exposure.
“Lagos is full of brilliant young people. What many of them need is access to structured training and global networks that can unlock their potential,” he said.
Participants selected for the programme will undergo structured training designed to provide both technical skills and practical experience in the chosen fields.
The training is also expected to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship among young people while helping them build sustainable careers within the technology and digital economy sectors.
