The Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs Bolaji Dada, has called on young people to embrace creativity and innovation as essential tools for career success and national development.
Dada made the call on Wednesday during a programme organised by the Ministry to mark the 2025 World Creativity and Innovation Day (WCID) in Lagos.
The commissioner said that creativity is the driving force behind resilience and societal progress, encouraging youths to apply innovative thinking in business, technology, and daily life.
“In today’s fast-changing world, creativity is essential — from business to technology — the strength of ideas and original thinking cannot be overstated,” she said.
She noted that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu continues to prioritise skills acquisition and vocational training as key strategies for youth and women empowerment in the state.
Dada described this year’s WCID theme, “Harnessing Creativity for Global Progress,” as timely and aligned with the Ministry’s vision of transforming lives through education, innovation, and self-reliance.
She said the Ministry’s skills acquisition centres have evolved into innovation hubs, nurturing ordinary individuals into exceptional talents across various trades.
“We are proud to display the remarkable talents of our students in trades like fashion, catering, carpentry, beadwork, and digital technology,” she said.
The commissioner appealed to the private sector, non-governmental organisations, and development partners to collaborate with the Ministry in expanding opportunities for creativity to flourish.
She commended the trainers at the skills centres for their commitment and encouraged trainees to remain focused and continue refining their crafts.
“Innovation grows where support, mentorship, and investment are present. Let’s equip our youth with the tools, opportunities, and confidence to imagine, create, and achieve great things,” Dada added.
Also speaking, Mrs Joy Ikpea, the event’s resource person, described innovation as Nigeria’s “new crude oil” and advised young people to distinguish themselves through unique ideas and value-driven solutions.