By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
Senator Wasiu Sanni Eshilokun, representing Lagos Central Senatorial District in the Upper Legislative Chamber, has commissioned a Renewed Hope ICT Centre in Lagos Mainland Local Government, describing the facility as a strategic investment in human capital that will equip residents with digital skills for the modern economy.
The ICT Centre was inaugurated on Friday, 17 July, 2026 at Ijero Baptist Primary School Compound, 33 Abule-Nla Road, Ebute Metta, Lagos Mainland.
The Centre was Facilitated by the Senator in partnership with the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), the project is designed to provide digital training for youths, women, entrepreneurs, artisans and other residents, while supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking at the ceremony, Eshilokun said the project underscored his commitment to expanding educational opportunities, promoting innovation and empowering constituents through technology.
He noted that digital literacy is no longer a luxury but a necessity, adding that future opportunities would belong to people equipped with relevant technological knowledge and skills.
According to him, the ICT Centre will serve as a hub for learning, innovation, creativity and digital empowerment, offering training in computer appreciation, software applications, coding, digital entrepreneurship, data analysis, digital marketing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and other emerging technologies.
The Senator described the facility as more than a building fitted with computers, saying it is an investment in human capital and a platform for creating opportunities for the people of Lagos Mainland.
He, however, stressed that the long-term success of the project would depend on effective management and sustained utilisation.
To achieve this, Eshilokun called for a strategic partnership between the Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and the Lagos Mainland Local Government.
He urged the ministry to provide technical support through training curricula, digital skills programmes, instructor development, professional certification, innovation initiatives and partnerships with technology organisations to ensure the centre operates in line with global best practices.
According to him, such collaboration would transform the facility into a centre of excellence for digital learning, innovation, entrepreneurship and job creation.
The lawmaker also charged the Lagos Mainland Local Government to take full responsibility for the day-to-day management of the centre by ensuring adequate security, regular maintenance, stable electricity supply and continuous public access.
He urged beneficiaries to maximise the opportunity, saying the knowledge acquired at the centre would improve individual livelihoods and contribute to community and national development.
Eshilokun also highlighted projects facilitated since assuming office in June 2023, including education support initiatives, infrastructure projects, youth and women empowerment programmes, community development interventions, legislative engagements and social investment programmes across Lagos Central Senatorial District.
He thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Lagos Mainland Local Government, traditional rulers, community leaders, party leaders, the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute and other stakeholders for supporting the successful delivery of the project.
The Senator is thereafter invited elder statesman, Prince (Dr.) Tajudeen Oluyole Olusi, MON, OON, to formally commission the ICT Centre.
Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Government, Mayor Dr. Emilagba Jubril Kolawole, in a speech, described the project as a major investment in education, youth empowerment and digital inclusion.
He said the facility, equipped with 40 modern computers, comfortable furniture, a fully air-conditioned learning environment and other supporting facilities, would enhance digital learning and technological advancement in the council area.
Kolawole noted that the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the development vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, both of which prioritise education, innovation and youth development.
He commended Senator Eshilokun for what he described as purposeful representation, assuring residents that the local government would ensure proper maintenance, security and effective utilisation of the ICT Centre.
The council chairman also encouraged students and other beneficiaries to take full advantage of the facility to develop digital, entrepreneurial and technological skills capable of preparing them for opportunities in the global economy.
