The Lagos State Government, through the Centre for Rural Development (CERUD) under the Office of Rural Development, has flagged off the Y2025 Training/Empowerment Programme on digital skills.
The initiative, which focused on website/blog creation and branding for business advertisement and entrepreneurial development, was held on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the Ikorodu Local Government Secretariat Hall, Ikorodu, Lagos State.
The programme, spearheaded by Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, and strongly supported by the state Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, is aimed at improving the quality of rural life.
It seeks to empower residents in rural areas by integrating digital skills into their careers, businesses, and ventures, fostering economic growth and self-reliance.
The training was structured into two impactful sessions: The first session focused on branding and niche carving, helping participants identify and develop unique business identities.
The second session centered on blog creation and social media integration, equipping attendees with practical knowledge on establishing an online presence and leveraging digital platforms.
Over 100 participants, including youths, students, and adults, benefited from the hands-on training, which ran from 10:30am to 3pm.
The provision of free internet Wi-Fi access ensured seamless learning and enhanced the practical nature of the programme.
Addressing the participants, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development, emphasized the importance of utilizing the opportunities provided by the programme.
He noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision of empowering youths and making them self-reliant and job creators.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, described the program as a transformative step towards economic growth in rural areas.
She highlighted the training’s focus on helping participants learn, unlearn, and relearn, enabling them to become active contributors to societal development.
One of the event’s highlights was the presentation of certificates to all participants.
In addition, 20 outstanding participants were rewarded with substantial data packages to support the continuation and application of their skills beyond the training.
Beneficiaries such as Ajayi Michael and Atunrase Taofeeq expressed their gratitude to the Lagos State Government for organizing such an impactful programme.
They urged the government to bring more of such initiatives to rural communities, acknowledging the transformative potential of digital empowerment.
The Y2025 Training/Empowerment Programme by CERUD underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and improving livelihoods in rural areas through innovative and inclusive digital interventions.
