In a strategic move to uplift young entrepreneurs across Lagos, Kakalistiq.com reports that the Lagos state government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the entrepreneurial development of vocational trainees. This was highlighted during the 2024 sensitization exercise held at the Odoragunshin Vocational Training Centre today in Epe, where youths were informed about accessing start-up loans through the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF).
Speaking at the event, Mrs Olaide Oladunjoye, Deputy Director at the Agency for Mass Education, Ministry of Tertiary Education, emphasized the importance of the initiative in boosting the socioeconomic capacity of young people. She urged trainees to seize the opportunity provided by the state government to secure start-up capital for their small and medium enterprises (SMEs), ensuring a sustainable livelihood.
“The story has been success, success, success. Over 4,000 of our trainees are going to access the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, and for me, it is not even enough. We want to have a situation where over 20,000 trainees are accessing these loans, which will significantly impact the economy of Epe and Lagos State as a whole,” Mrs. Oladunjoye stated, reflecting the state’s ambitious vision.
Mrs. Oladunjoye expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support in providing free training and financial empowerment to the youths. “We are basically here to tell our trainees that they can access loans from the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund as start-up kits to kickstart their businesses,” she added.
Highlighting the crucial role of vocational training in poverty alleviation, Mrs. Oladunjoye noted, “It
is necessary for us to wrestle the youths from unemployment and build future entrepreneurs who will propel the state to the next level.”
Encouraging the trainees, she urged them to be committed and steadfast in making the most of the opportunities presented. “This is also a message to those who are not yet aware—Lagos State is doing great things to empower them. Spread the news around town,” she encouraged.
During the sensitization exercise, Mrs. Ayodele Salu provided detailed guidance on the requirements for accessing the LSETF loan, including the need for an email address, LASRRA, and NIN. She advised trainees to visit the LSETF office at the Epe Local Government Secretariat for further assistance, noting that the start-up loan offers ₦250,000 for fresh graduates with a moratorium period for repayment.
Speaking in an interview, the Principal of Odoragunshin Vocational Training Centre, Mrs Olubanjo Yemisi expressed optimism about the impact of the sensitization exercise. “This initiative is a game-changer for our trainees. By equipping them with both skills and financial support, we are setting them on a path to success and self-reliance. The knowledge gained today will empower them to not only start their businesses but to thrive in a competitive market,” she stated.
The event featured various sensitization talks from experts, leading to engaging and insightful question-and-answer sessions. Notable attendees included Mrs. Nofisat Sanni, Mrs. Ashake Chinenye, Mr. Ibrahim Mustapha, and other key government officials, all contributing to the success of the program.
