DIGITAL EMPOWERMENT OF YOUTH KEY TO BUILDING A GREATER LAGOS - YOUTH COMMISSIONER

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The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende has said that the dream of building a #Greater Lagos cannot be actualised without the digital empowerment of the youth for their meaningful contribution to the development of the State.

This was made known by the Commissioner during a Press Conference organised to commemorate the Y2024 International Youth Day held at Alausa on Monday.

Mr. Ogunlende underscored the importance of equipping young people with digital skills to ensure the future prosperity of the state.

The Commissioner emphasised that the state’s youth population is a vital asset, and empowering them with the necessary digital tools and knowledge is crucial to Lagos’ long-term development.

“The future of Lagos lies in the hands of our youth, and by providing them with the digital skills they need, we are laying the foundation for a #Greater Lagos”, Mr. Ogunlende stated.

He further explained that the Lagos State Government has implemented various initiatives aimed at promoting digital literacy among the youth, including partnerships with tech companies, digital training programmes, and the establishment of innovation hubs across the state.

These efforts, he noted, are designed to prepare young Lagosians for the challenges of the digital age and to create opportunities for them to contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.

Mr. Ogunlende also highlighted the theme of this year’s International Youth Day, which focuses on leveraging digital technology for sustainable development.

He urged young people in Lagos to take advantage of the resources and opportunities provided by the government to enhance their digital capabilities.

The Commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to youth development, stating that the empowerment of young people through digital skills is key to achieving the vision of a #Greater Lagos.

He called on all stakeholders to support the state’s efforts in this regard, noting that a collaborative approach is essential for success.

On the theme of the event: “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development”, Ogunlende said the theme emphasises the crucial role of youth in leveraging digital technologies to a sustainable future in today’s data-driven world.

According to him, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration, in recognising the crucial role of youth in today’s Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous and Disruptive (VUCAD) world, has deliberately included youth empowerment and engagement as one of the pillars of the THEMES Plus Agenda to ensure that issues affecting the young people in the State receive the deserved attention.

Highlighting the efforts made by the Ministry of Youth and Social Development in supporting the youth, he said, “In collaboration with GFA Technologies and WEMA Bank PLC, we launched the Lagos State Upskill Programme (LAG-UP) which aims to equip over 100,000 young people with digital and employability skills.

“We also partnered with the Lagos State Resident Registration Agency (LASRRA), to begin registering all young people between 18 and 35 years of age, ensuring accurate data collection for effective planning and resource allocation.

“Last year, we organised the Amplifier Business Clinic for young entrepreneurs, where participants learned various strategies for business success, they were attached to mentors and received startup tools and financial support to scale up their enterprises”, Ogunlende added.

Similarly, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharm (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu said the youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow. They are the driving force of today, and their active participation in shaping the future of our society is essential. We will be engaging in a variety of events that aim to equip our youth with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world”.

She added: “From digital skills training to entrepreneurial development, from discussions on mental health to initiatives aimed at fostering creativity and innovation, this year’s International Youth Day activities are carefully designed to address the needs and aspirations of our young people”.

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According to the Permanent Secretary, the Year 2024 International Youth Day which commenced today with Press Conference will be concluded on Tuesday, 27th August, 2024 with a Grand March Past/Parade by Uniformed Voluntary Organisations for Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and presentation of grants to winners of the Amplifier Business Clinic Entrepreneur Pitch Competition at Campos Mini Stadium.

The press conference was attended by representatives from various youth organisations, government officials and members of the press.