Lagos Marks Innovation Day With Skill Expo

LAGOS — The Lagos State Government has called on youth and vocational students across the state to step out of their comfort zones, harness their creative talents, and embrace entrepreneurship as a vital pathway to economic independence and sustainable development.

​The call was made during the celebration of the 2026 World Creativity and Innovation Day, organized by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) at the WAPA Skills Acquisition Centre in Isheri.

​Addressing attendees under the global standard of this year’s theme, “Step Out and Innovate,” the Honourable Commissioner for WAPA, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, emphasized that innovation extends far beyond the tech sector. She noted that true ingenuity thrives within craftsmanship, arts, and vocational trades.

​”Creativity and innovation are the ultimate tools for personal growth and self-reliance,” Hon. Dada stated. “We see brilliant innovation every day in fashion design, catering, hairdressing, shoemaking, and arts and crafts. Our goal is to see our students transform these skills into thriving enterprises.”

​Driving Self-Reliance Through Vocational Excellence

​Hon. Dada reaffirmed the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s unwavering commitment to buffering the state’s economy by empowering women, young adults, and vulnerable residents. Through its 19 Skills Acquisition Centres, the Ministry continues to deploy targeted capacity-building programs designed to alleviate poverty and foster financial independence.

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​The event featured a high-impact motivational session by business strategist Mr. Gbenga Ademujimi, who challenged the students to look at their crafts through an entrepreneurial lens. He urged the next generation of creators to leverage social media platforms strategically to market their brands, build valuable networks, and scale their businesses.

​A Showcase of Talent

​The celebration reached a crescendo with a vibrant exhibition where students from all 19 state-owned acquisition centres showcased their works. The exhibition floor featured high-fashion designs, complex beadwork, avant-garde hairstyles, and innovative catering products—all tangible proof of the state’s investment in human capital.

​Closing the event, the Permanent Secretary of WAPA, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, expressed gratitude to the state government, instructors, and stakeholders. She noted that the success of the exhibition is a testament to what can be achieved when governance meets grassroots talent, promising that Lagos State will continue to champion sustainable empowerment initiatives.