LASG Steps Up Support For Artisans, Others

Lagos State is moving to globalize its local workforce through a new strategic partnership. The Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment has engaged Human Invest Group Africa to enhance training and certification for artisans and unemployed youths. This move is designed to ensure that the "backbone of the economy"—the skilled laborers—are prepared for high-paying opportunities both within Nigeria and abroad.

​During a recent meeting, the Honourable Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, emphasized the need for a deliberate approach to empowerment. He noted that while artisans provide essential everyday services, they often lack the formal recognition needed to scale their businesses. This new collaboration aims to provide that structure through international-standard training and licensing.

Mrs. Ajibola Ponle, the founder of Human Invest Group Africa and a former state commissioner, highlighted the importance of a unified database for artisans. She argued that proper regulation and licensing are key to ensuring quality assurance and protecting the nation’s image. With professional certification, Lagosian artisans can more easily access international job markets and command better wages.

​The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Lolade Aina, further explained that accurate data is the foundation of sustainable employment. By identifying where the skills gaps are, the government can tailor its interventions to produce the most effective results. The goal is to move beyond temporary fixes and create long-term pathways to decent jobs for the state's growing youth population.

This initiative represents a significant shift in how Lagos views its informal sector. By treating artisanship as a professional career path with global potential, the government is opening new doors for economic growth. As the training programs roll out, the focus will remain on safety, quality, and the competitive readiness of every Lagos resident.