The Chairman of Ojodu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State, Hon. David Odunmbaku Segun (DOS) has urged youths across Nigeria to embrace the acquisition of information and knowledge that can support their entrepreneurship journey through adequate skill development.

Hon. Odunmbaku made this call while speaking to the youths from across Nigeria who attended the Enterprise-Skills Development Training (EDET) organized by the Office of the APC National Youth Leader.

Hon. Odunmbaku delivered a heartwarming speech while urging the participants to ensure that they are adding value to their formal education and certifications through additional skills acquisition.

In his address, Hon. Odunmbaku commended the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje and National Youth Leader, Hon. Dayo Israel for their significant support towards to the successful implementation of some of the developmental plans for the youths of the country and the party.

“It is crucial that the youths understand the basis of running a business from the registration to funding, and to know exactly the dos and donts at the early stages of running a business. This is crucial and that’s why this particular programme will go a long way in giving them the necessary skills and lessons to progress in their particular fields.

“Like I said, I don’t use the word empowerment for our youths, I like the word; engagement, because that’s what they need in a country where there’s no safety net, the nearest to them is the local government and also nearest to them are programmes like this that gives support and succour to the youths and at this stage in their life, they are kind of delusion on which way to go.

“This is very timely and we appreciate the organizers of this event. I listened to the lectures and I think it is a round peg in a round hole and this is timely for our youths in a time where post-covid inflation is biting the economy and to have youths that are entrepreneurs, thinking out of the box and providing for themselves and families, to have such a support is huge” Hon Odunmbaku further noted.

He emphasized on the significant roles played by entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) which serves as the backbone of the Nigerian economy.

The Council Chair also highlighted some of the youth engagement initiatives of his administration through his H.E.Y.S Development Agenda aimed to empower youths by providing certified training programmes in various high-demand fields including renewable energy systems; industrial automation and processing engineering, HVAC systems, advanced solar technology and ICT training in data analytics and coding.

“Your unique selling proposition is your skill acquisition and a strong brand and official certifications not only enhances credibility but also open doors to greater opportunities,” he advised.

He further emphasized on the global demand for specialized professionals like crane operators, offshore welders, and solar system installers, urging the participants to leverage their newly acquired soft skills for success.

He also advised the participants on the importance of proper documentation and certification for SMEs, emphasizing the value of building a sustainable brand.

The bootcamp featured skill development professionals including; Leslie George; Dr. Ayobami Olugbenga Wyse and Olufunke Ige, and prominent entrepreneurs like Founder/MD of Oriki Group, Mrs. Joyce Awosika, and CEO Artee Group, Haresh Keswani and President, African Young Entrepreneurs (AYE) and Special Adviser on Entrepreneurship Development to the Ondo State Governor, Dr. Summy Smart Francis who touched base on various themes of enterprise-skill development.