The Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Engr. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, has launched the Career Accelerator Programme (CAP), an intensive career development initiative designed to equip young people in Ibeju-Lekki with practical skills, professional exposure and the capacity to compete in today's world of work.
The programme, targeted at young people between the ages of 18 and 35, is being delivered in partnership with Genzaar Eduworld, African Fintech Foundry (AFF) and GIZ through the ZME initiative.
Speaking at the launch, Chairman Olowa linked the programme to the rapid transformation taking place across Ibeju-Lekki, noting that development must be matched by deliberate investment in the people who will participate in and drive that growth.
Earlier in the day, the Chairman commissioned the 900-metre Lakowe-Losoro-Lagasa Road. Drawing a connection between the two events, he said the road represents infrastructure that brings communities closer to opportunity, while CAP is designed to prepare young people to take advantage of those opportunities.
"This morning, I stood before the people of Lakowe, Losoro and Lagasa to commission a road that will make movement easier and bring communities closer to economic opportunities. This afternoon, we are here to prepare our young people to take advantage of those opportunities."
As part of the launch, Chairman Olowa also commissioned the fully completed ICT Centre where the Career Accelerator Programme will take place. The facility is equipped with computers and Wi-Fi, providing participants with a dedicated environment for digital learning, practical training and professional development.
He stressed that infrastructure, important as it is, can only go so far without people equipped to benefit from it. With industries, businesses and investments expanding across Ibeju-Lekki, he said the Local Government must ensure that its young population is prepared for the opportunities emerging around them.
"The difference we seek to make is not simply in the number of young people who pass through this programme. It is in what happens to them afterwards."
CAP combines practical learning, professional development, mentorship and exposure to the world of work, giving participants an opportunity to develop relevant skills and a clearer understanding of how to apply them.
The Chairman urged participants to approach the programme with discipline and seriousness, reminding them that the real value of the opportunity would be reflected in what they build, pursue and achieve afterwards.
The facilitators reinforced this message, reminding participants that "free equals gratitude and responsibility, not something to be taken for granted." They encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity through commitment, active participation and a willingness to learn.
The programme forms part of the Education and Youth Development pillar of the SHIEELD Agenda, reflecting the administration's focus on ensuring that Ibeju-Lekki's young people are equipped to participate meaningfully in the Local Government's economic transformation.
Chairman Olowa commended the Executive Council, Legislative Council and Management Staff of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government for their support and collective efforts in making the programme possible. He also appreciated the programme partners and facilitators for their collaboration and urged the participants to make the opportunity count.
The road commissioned this morning connects communities. The investment made this afternoon is designed to connect young people to the future.
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