Lagos, Diageo Nigeria launch training to empower over 250 Youths

The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with Diageo Nigeria, has unveiled a major skill acquisition programme that will train over 250 young Lagosians in hospitality, entrepreneurship, and retail.

This partnership, executed under Diageo’s Learning for Life (L4L) initiative, was officially launched on Monday, at The Wings Tower, Victoria Island, Lagos.

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The initiative was flagged off with strong representation from both public and private sectors.

Representing Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu was the Honourable Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, who described the initiative as a “bold step toward sustainable youth development.”

“This partnership between Diageo Nigeria and the Lagos State Government is a shining example of how public-private collaboration can drive meaningful change, especially in tackling unemployment and promoting skills development,” Hon. Ajigbotafe stated at the event.

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He further reiterated that the Learning for Life programme aligns with the State Government’s THEMES+ Agenda, particularly its pillars on education, youth empowerment, and social inclusion.

Equipping Youths with Practical and Employable Skills

The Learning for Life (L4L) programme is designed to equip beneficiaries with hands-on training in hospitality, bartending, entrepreneurship, and retail, sectors identified as key growth drivers in Lagos’ economy.

According to Diageo Nigeria, the programme is not merely about providing temporary jobs, but about creating long-term career pathways that empower young people with industry-relevant skills.

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“We are proud to support young Nigerians with opportunities that enable them to thrive in dynamic and high-potential industries like hospitality and retail,” said a spokesperson for Diageo Nigeria.

The training is expected to position participants for both employment and entrepreneurship, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the State’s expanding service and tourism sectors.

Boosting the Local Economy Through Skill Development

Lagos, often regarded as the economic nerve centre of Nigeria, continues to experience rapid growth in hospitality, leisure, and retail sectors.

With the city’s rising tourist numbers and nightlife economy, the demand for skilled personnel is higher than ever.

“We are not just training people for jobs—we are equipping them to become employers themselves,” said Hon. Ajigbotafe, adding that many of the programme’s graduates will also receive business support and mentorship.

The Sanwo-Olu administration has consistently emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in addressing youth-related challenges.

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This programme is one of several initiatives under the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, and reflects ongoing efforts to support youth-focused, innovation-driven programmes across all local government areas.

Hon. Ajigbotafe used the opportunity to call on other private sector players to emulate Diageo’s example, “Government alone cannot solve unemployment. We need more corporate organisations to join hands with us to create opportunities for our youths.”