The Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment has reaffirmed its commitment to turning the state’s youth population into a powerful force for economic development. This was made known at the Premium Times Employability Summit held at Radisson Blu Anchorage, Victoria Island.
Representing the Honourable Commissioner, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, was Mr. Demilola Shitta, Director in the Employment Department. He stressed that “Lagos cannot afford to let its youth advantage become a liability.” According to him, the state is focused on preparing young people with practical, future-ready skills to remain relevant in today’s changing job market.
Shitta highlighted various government initiatives like the Graduate Internship Placement Programme, job fairs, specialized ICT training sessions, and five fully equipped job centres across Lagos. These centres offer job matching services, counselling, and access to labour market information.
He also mentioned sessions held with international partners, giving young people direct access to industry leaders to better understand what employers expect. “We must keep our youth employable and competitive,” he added.
The Commissioner urged stakeholders to support the state’s efforts by offering internship placements, investing in youth-led businesses, and backing skill-building programmes.
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The summit also featured speakers from LSETF, PWC Nigeria, Seven-Up Bottling Company, and Africa Context Advisory Partner, all highlighting the importance of private-public collaboration in growing Nigeria’s youth economy.