Lagos concludes International Youth Day celebrations with parade, grants

The weeklong celebrations for the 2024 International Day of Youth in Lagos State culminated on Tuesday with a grand march past and parade organized by the Ministry of Youth and Social Development.

The event, held at the Campos Mini Stadium on Lagos Island, was attended by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who reiterated his administration’s commitment to leveraging the potential of young people for sustainable development and a prosperous future.

During the ceremony, Governor Sanwo-Olu announced the eight finalists for the third edition of the Amplifier Business Clinic and Pitch Contest. The program, designed to equip 100 young entrepreneurs with essential tools, knowledge, and resources, aims to help them turn their business ideas into successful, sustainable ventures. The Governor awarded N10 million in business grants to support the finalists’ proposals, with Maryam Atolagbe winning the top prize of N2.5 million to support her business.

Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the grants were not just financial support but investments in the dreams of young entrepreneurs, enabling them to contribute to the state’s economic development. He highlighted the theme of the International Day of Youth, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” as reflecting his belief in the power of digital technology to connect young people to a sustainable and prosperous future.

“Our administration’s renewed commitment to youth empowerment and engagement is demonstrated by the new programs, policies, and interventions we have initiated since the start of our second tenure,” Sanwo-Olu said. “These are designed to empower young people in Lagos by focusing on several key policy pillars.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu outlined several initiatives, including the establishment of technology hubs and innovation centers across the state to provide young people with access to advanced tools, training, and mentorship. “Our goal is to create a thriving ecosystem where tech-savvy youth can develop solutions that address real-world challenges,” he added.

He also highlighted ongoing investments in education, skill development, and supporting infrastructure, such as digital learning platforms that equip students with future-ready skills. The Lagos State Employability Support Project, among other initiatives, has trained thousands of youths in various digital skills, boosting their employability and entrepreneurial capabilities.

The Governor emphasized the importance of investing in youth leadership programs, aligning with his administration’s vision of fostering sustainable development, economic growth, and social stability while harnessing the demographic dividend. He cited the establishment of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy as an example of the state’s commitment to nurturing future leaders through immersive leadership experiences with both local and international exposure.

Sanwo-Olu also noted that Lagos State had sponsored 15 young leaders for a study tour and leadership training at the Institute of Management in Helsinki, Finland, among other initiatives. He stressed the importance of involving youth in the decision-making process to create policies that reflect their needs and aspirations.

Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, provided an overview of the week’s activities, which included a press conference, awareness walks, environmental sanitation efforts, a youth conference, and an engagement summit. The events concluded with the inauguration of the Technical Working Group on Youth Engagement.

Ogunlende highlighted that the creation of the Technical Working Group demonstrated the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to enhancing youth development initiatives through data-driven decision-making, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts. “The Technical Working Group comprises individuals with diverse technical expertise from both the public and private sectors, fostering collaboration and partnership opportunities,” the Commissioner said.

With these initiatives, Lagos State continues to prioritize youth empowerment and development, aiming to build a prosperous future driven by the energy and creativity of its young people.