Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has charged beneficiaries of the Lagos State Skill Acquisition Programme to see their graduation as a springboard into entrepreneurial success, reminding them that while skills are critical for self-reliance, character remains key to sustaining long-term business growth.

The Governor gave this charge on Thursday at the graduation ceremony for the 2024/2025 batch of the programme, held at De Blue Roof, Agidingbi, Ikeja, where no fewer than 5,309 trainees were officially certified after completing courses across 19 Skill Acquisition Centres in the state.

The trainees were drawn from the three senatorial districts of Lagos and trained in various vocations including aluminium fabrication, welding, vulcanising, fashion design, carpentry, cosmetology, textile design, screen printing, Aso Oke weaving, and shoe and bag making, among others.

Since the inception of the Sanwo-Olu administration, over 40,000 people have benefitted from the state-sponsored initiative, which is managed by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA).

In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu urged the graduands not to treat the ceremony as a celebration alone, but as a call to action to determine the course of their future.

“This graduation ceremony should not be about merrymaking; it is a call to action for you to create the future you have dreamed for yourself,” he said. “With the acquired skills, you can now stand alone as entrepreneurs. But how far you go will depend on your character and resilience.”

Sanwo-Olu said the State Government fully sponsored the training and also provided tools and equipment to the best-performing trainees, empowering them to launch their businesses immediately. He added that the programme was part of the state’s deliberate strategy to lift vulnerable citizens out of poverty and promote inclusive economic growth.

“Many global brands started small,” he said. “You must be innovative and build enterprises that can outlive you. The entrepreneurial journey is not always smooth, but perseverance is key. Don’t quit doing so would make the investment in you go to waste.”

The Governor also emphasized the importance of relationship-building in sustaining a successful business, advising the graduands to develop strong networks and stay committed to their vision.

First Lady Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, who also addressed the graduands, said the success of the programme was proof that equipping individuals with relevant skills could transform lives and secure the future.

“Today’s ceremony is a celebration of our shared belief that, when we empower women, men, and young adults, we secure the future and prosperity of Lagos,” she said. “Take pride in what you’ve achieved. Step into the world with confidence, determination, and creativity.”

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, praised the discipline displayed by the trainees during the course of the programme. She noted that the initiative was inclusive, accommodating people with disabilities and victims of sexual and gender-based violence.

“This programme is a testament to the State Government’s unwavering commitment to inclusive development and the empowerment of every segment of society especially women, youth, and the vulnerable,” the Commissioner said.