Lagos Deepens International Collaboration on Youth Empowerment through GIZ SKYE Partnership

As part of ongoing efforts to tackle youth unemployment and boost economic development, the Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its partnership with international development agency GIZ through its Skills Development for Youth Employment (SKYE) project.

On Wednesday, June 5, 2025, a delegation from GIZ SKYE paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment to strengthen collaboration in the areas of youth training, job creation, and sustainable employment. The visit took place at the Ministry’s conference room in Alausa, Ikeja.

The delegation, led by Ms. Djokic Svjetlana, Component Manager for Employment Promotion at GIZ SKYE, was received on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Esv. Wasiu Olayinka.

Speaking during the engagement, the Permanent Secretary commended GIZ SKYE for its consistent support and alignment with the Lagos State Government’s development goals under the THEMES Plus agenda. He noted the importance of strategic partnerships in equipping the youth with practical skills that match today’s evolving economic landscape.

“It is heartening to see development partners like GIZ SKYE working hand-in-hand with Lagos to empower our youth. These efforts are key to unlocking the full potential of our young population and reducing unemployment,” he stated.

Ms. Svjetlana expressed gratitude for the Lagos State Government’s longstanding partnership with GIZ and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to inclusive employment and skills development. She emphasized that GIZ SKYE remains dedicated to providing demand-driven training and sustainable job opportunities for young people in the state.

“We are here to strengthen this collaboration and ensure that more Lagos youth can access meaningful training, decent work, and sustainable livelihoods,” she noted.

The meeting also provided a platform for both parties to explore ongoing initiatives and potential future collaborations. Discussions centered on scaling up current efforts to create job pathways for the youth and enhance socio-economic outcomes.

For members of the diaspora, this development underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to forging global partnerships that improve local impact. The continued collaboration with international institutions like GIZ reflects the administration’s strategic focus on youth empowerment as a foundation for long-term economic resilience.