LASG Champions Tech Talent as Key to Future Prosperity at CODEFEST 2025

The Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, has reaffirmed the pivotal role of young entrepreneurs, developers and innovators in shaping the future prosperity of Lagos State. He made this known while delivering the keynote address as Special Guest at the CODEFEST Nigerian Hackathon Expo & Awards 2025 held at the University of Lagos, Akoka.

Represented by the Director, Administration and Human Resource, Mrs. Kudirat Aderonke Bello, the Commissioner commended Codefest Nigeria for its remarkable achievements, including the development of 92 innovative tech solutions and its recognition in the Guinness World Records. He described the platform as a testament to the creativity and global potential of Nigerian youths.

Ajigbotafe noted that the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment remains committed to transforming the potential of Lagos youth into prosperity through skill development, entrepreneurship support and employment creation. He stressed that the future of wealth creation lies not in physical resources but in the power of ideas and digital innovation.

“In today’s world, wealth is created by digging for ideas. Every solution showcased at this Hackathon has the potential to become a sustainable business, a job creator and a service that improves the lives of Lagos residents,” he said.

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He further challenged participants to design solutions that address daily realities such as improving Primary Healthcare delivery, tackling traffic challenges and expanding access to employment opportunities. He assured that the Lagos State Government is ready to partner with innovators and support the adoption of viable solutions within its ministries and agencies.

Guest Speaker and CEO of Triberry Nigeria, Mr. Vinod Kaurati emphasised that Automation, AI and Cloud Technology are already reshaping global industries. He projected that by 2030, Africa will emerge as a global technology leader, with Nigeria requiring about 30 million professionals in the tech space.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Mekatrice Group, Dr. Kingsley Oboti, highlighted the importance of digital infrastructure in driving Africa’s economic transformation.

One of the highlights of the event was the impressive display of a remote-controlled car built from simple trash materials by young innovator Israel Destiny, drawing admiration from guests and participants.

The Commissioner praised Codefest International and the University of Lagos for consistently empowering youths and strengthening the innovation ecosystem. He reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to supporting creative talent and building a future-ready workforce.