The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), on Tuesday joined dignitaries at the graduation and prize-giving ceremony of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) – Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) Technical Skills Development Project, held at the NECA ICT Academy, Lagos.
The event marked the successful completion of a four-month intensive digital and technical skills training for 100 participants in key areas such as Artificial Intelligence, 3D Animation, Cybersecurity, Python Programming, and Data Analysis.
In his goodwill message, Chairman Dauda congratulated the graduating trainees for their commitment and resilience throughout the training period, describing their feat as “a significant step toward building a self-reliant and technology-driven generation.” He commended NECA and ITF for their enduring collaboration in advancing human capital development, particularly in the digital economy.
Dauda further expressed the readiness of Ikeja Local Government to collaborate with NECA and ITF to extend similar training programmes to youths within the council area. He noted that such partnerships align with the I.K.E.J.A. AGENDA of his administration, which prioritizes Knowledge, Innovation, Empowerment, Job Creation, and Advancement.
“Our government believes in capacity building and equipping young people with practical, employable skills,” he said. “A partnership between Ikeja Local Government, NECA, and ITF will enable more youths to thrive in the global digital space and contribute meaningfully to our economy. This is how we make governance work for everyone.”
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, congratulated the participants and encouraged them to deploy their newly acquired skills for personal growth and societal development.
The ceremony attracted top figures from the public and private sectors, especially within the digital and technology ecosystem. The Deputy Governor of Lagos State was represented by the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Mr. Tunbosun Alake, who delivered the keynote address. The Director-General of ITF and Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Jimoh Moshood, were also represented and gave goodwill messages.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of awards to outstanding trainees and the cutting of the graduation cake amid cheers and celebration.
