Lagos creativity empowerment drive gets emotional recognition as Commissioner Bolaji Dada urges private sector to support youth and women innovations

[dropcap]L[/dropcap]agos creativity empowerment drive took centre stage during the 2025 World Creativity and Innovation Day celebration at the WAPA Skills Acquisition Centre in Isheri.

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The event, marked by emotional speeches and renewed calls for public-private partnerships, showcased the Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to youth and women empowerment.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, urged non-governmental organisations and the private sector to increase their investment in youth-led and women-led innovation.

She described creativity as the fuel behind economic empowerment and sustainable development, noting its growing role in the global economy.

“In today’s rapidly evolving world, creativity is not just a luxury, it is a necessity,” Dada declared to an audience filled with students, guests, and members of the media.

“From entrepreneurship to technology, the power of ideas and the ability to think outside the box is what drives progress and builds resilient societies.”

The celebration, themed Harnessing Creativity for Global Progress, was hosted at one of Lagos State’s key vocational training centres. The choice of venue was no accident.

Dada highlighted how the WAPA Skills Acquisition Centre had become a dynamic training ground under the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. She praised its transformation into what she called “incubators of talent and hubs of transformation.”

Dada also used the opportunity to thank Governor Sanwo-Olu for his steadfast support for women and youth empowerment.

She applauded the ministry’s staff and leadership for their consistent efforts in nurturing future leaders and creators through hands-on vocational training.

The programmes offered by WAPA have become essential in equipping thousands of Lagosians with sustainable skills in tailoring, catering, ICT, and more.

Echoing the commissioner’s message, the Founder of Leadership Challenge Foundation, Joy Ikpe, gave a motivational address aimed at encouraging young people to embrace their talents and believe in their value. Her voice resonated with the students in attendance.

“Whatever it is you’re doing, the key thing is to create value. If you cannot convince someone of the value you’re creating, then you’re shortchanging yourself. You must build your confidence,” Ikpe urged.

She also reminded the participants that vocational skills are life assets. “These are not just trades; they are tools you carry with you for life. Wherever you go, your skills follow,” she added.

The Lagos creativity empowerment drive has received praise for being both inclusive and practical. The state’s model combines government support, expert instruction, and private sector involvement to foster a new generation of innovative thinkers and doers.

Many participants expressed hope that such platforms would expand across the country, allowing more Nigerians to access training that translates into real opportunities.

Some guests noted the importance of creativity in solving everyday problems and saw events like this as vital steps in building a more self-reliant society.

With the backing of stakeholders from different sectors, the initiative is expected to grow. The ministry has hinted at upcoming collaborations and expansions aimed at integrating digital innovation and global best practices into the current training structure.

As creativity and innovation gain global relevance, Lagos remains focused on building resilient, empowered communities through practical initiatives.

Commissioner Dada’s call to action is expected to influence wider discussions around how governments, civil society, and private organisations can partner to build a brighter future.

The energy from the celebration was infectious, and for many young people in the room, it was more than just an event.