Lions Club empowers Ikorodu Youth with skills training

In a bold move to combat youth unemployment and curb criminal tendencies, the Ikorodu Peculiar Lions Club, in partnership with the Oshodi Art Gallery, successfully concluded a five-day youth empowerment and skill acquisition programme in Ikorodu, Lagos State.

The initiative equipped young participants from diverse backgrounds with practical, lifelong skills to foster self-reliance and community development.

The programme culminated in a vibrant certificate presentation ceremony, celebrating the dedication and achievements of the young attendees.

The event underscored the transformative power of community-driven efforts in shaping Nigeria’s future.

Dr. Seyi Oshodi, President of the Ikorodu Peculiar Lions Club and founder of the Oshodi Art Gallery, emphasized the programme’s role in redirecting youth from idleness to productivity. “This initiative reflects our commitment to community service,” Dr. Oshodi said at the closing ceremony.

“By teaching these young people valuable skills, we’re steering them away from crime and toward meaningful contributions to society.”

Dr. Oshodi highlighted the programme’s alignment with Lions Clubs International’s mission of service, noting its annual recurrence as part of a sustained effort to tackle poverty, crime, and unemployment. He expressed alarm at the rising involvement of Nigerian youth in cybercrime and prostitution, attributing these trends to a lack of guidance and opportunities. “Skill-based education is critical,” he said.

“It empowers our youth and transforms them into assets for our nation.”

Echoing Dr. Oshodi’s sentiments, the club’s Service Chairperson, Alapafuja Fuad, called for stronger collaboration among non-governmental organizations, government, and the private sector to address youth unemployment.

“Sustainable national progress requires collective action,” Fuad stated. “We cannot leave youth development to the government alone.”

A beneficiary, Ajayi Blessed Emmanuel, expressed gratitude for the transformative experience.

“These five days have been life-changing,” Emmanuel said. “Instead of idling on the streets, I’ve gained skills that will shape my future. I urge the Lions Club to keep this programme going.”