Lagos State launches 2026 upskilling programme for 1,200 artisans, offers tools and jobs link
By Aboki Forex —
The Lagos State Government has launched its 2026 skills development programme for tradesmen and artisans, targeting 1,200 beneficiaries in an eight-week initiative. The programme is designed to boost productivity, expand employment opportunities and strengthen small businesses across the state.
Organised by the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, the programme was flagged off at the STO Resource Centre, Debt Management Office, Alausa, Ikeja. Participants will receive practical technical and entrepreneurial training aimed at improving their expertise, business capacity and ability to adapt to changing market demands. Successful beneficiaries will also be provided with working tools at the end of the programme.
Commissioner outlines training details and government backing
Speaking at the launch, Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, said the programme was part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s efforts to develop human capital and promote economic inclusion across the state. Ajigbotafe stated that the initiative supports the administration’s THEMES+ Agenda, particularly its priorities on youth empowerment, social inclusion and employment generation.
He explained that the training would expose artisans to modern work methods and technological skills required to increase efficiency, improve the quality of their services and make their businesses more competitive. According to the commissioner, the eight-week programme will take place simultaneously at Government Technical Colleges in Agidingbi, Ikotun and Ikorodu. The sessions will emphasise practical, hands-on learning, with participants receiving training tailored to their various trades and areas of specialisation.
Working tools and job connections for all beneficiaries
Ajigbotafe added that the ministry was also exploring ways to expand access to business opportunities for artisans by connecting them with jobs and contracts from Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the Lagos State Government. He disclosed that all 1,200 participants would receive working tools after completing the programme, describing the support as an additional measure to help them improve their businesses and service delivery.
The commissioner encouraged participants to take the training seriously, noting that continuous learning, innovation and adaptation were increasingly important for artisans operating in a technology-driven economy.
What this means for small businesses and the local economy
For Nigerian small businesses and consumers, the programme could ease the shortage of skilled artisans in Lagos, reduce the cost of hiring reliable tradesmen, and improve service quality. By linking trained artisans to government contracts and providing startup tools, the state is helping to lower entry barriers for micro-enterprises. This should support local spending and keep more naira circulating within Lagos communities.