Lagos Targets 10,000 Residents for Skills Training, Business Growth
Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to train 10,000 residents in technology, health, construction, fashion and business skills as part of efforts to expand employment opportunities and strengthen entrepreneurship across the state.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced the initiative on Tuesday through Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat at the Omniverse Africa Summit 3.0 in Lagos, revealing that the programme will be delivered through the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF).
Sanwo-Olu said the state is investing heavily in broadband infrastructure, digital government services and innovation hubs to create an enabling environment for businesses and start-ups.
“We are investing in broadband access, digitising government services, establishing innovation clusters, and building the policy environment that makes entrepreneurship viable at scale,” he said.
The governor disclosed that LSETF disbursed ₦1.91 billion in affordable loans to more than 4,000 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in 2025, while grants worth over ₦23 million were provided to 65 businesses.
He added that 2,500 young people secured paid internships through the Fund, while 1,050 persons living with disabilities received entrepreneurship training and start-up support.
“Through a renewed partnership with the United States African Development Foundation, LSETF is on course to train 10,000 Lagosians in industry-relevant skills,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
Speaking at the summit, European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, said Nigeria’s youthful population presents significant opportunities for innovation and growth, particularly in the digital and creative sectors.
German Ambassador Annett Günther highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence and green technologies in driving entrepreneurship and sustainable development.
Omniverse Africa Co-Convener Charles Emembolu called for stronger collaboration among governments, institutions and the private sector to unlock opportunities for Africa’s growing workforce.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Otamere Gladness 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius